Seventy-nine green sea turtle hatchlings made their way safely to the sea in Panglao just hours before the global observance of World Sea Turtle Day, marking a timely boost for marine conservation efforts in Central Visayas, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Central Visayas (DENR 7) said.
The DENR 7 reported that the hatchlings emerged on the evening of June 15 from a nesting site located in front of Henann Resort in Panglao.
The site was first recorded on April 25, 2026, and is part of an active nesting area extending toward the Libaong coastal stretch.
After nearly two months of incubation, the hatchlings successfully reached the ocean with assistance and monitoring from DENR personnel under the Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS), the Panglao Island Restoration and Rehabilitation Program (PIRRP), and resort staff.
Authorities immediately implemented protective measures to ensure safe passage, including reducing artificial lighting and maintaining a disturbance-free environment to guide the hatchlings toward the sea.
Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) of Bohol Wilson E. Henson credited the coordinated response of government workers, local conservation teams, private stakeholders, and the community for the successful emergence.
“This successful hatching event demonstrates the value of strong collaboration among DENR personnel, local conservation teams, private stakeholders, and the community,” Henson said. He added that proper coordination and adherence to wildlife protection protocols helped ensure the hatchlings reached the sea safely.
DENR 7 OIC Regional Executive Director Laudemir S. Salac urged the public to help protect marine ecosystems, saying the event highlights the importance of conservation efforts.
“The emergence of these Green Sea Turtle hatchlings is a remarkable reminder of the natural treasures that Bohol is blessed with,” Salac said.
He encouraged residents and tourists to practice responsible and respectful interaction with wildlife and coastal habitats.
Salac added that the survival of endangered species such as sea turtles depends on collective action, including keeping beaches clean, reducing pollution, and protecting marine environments.
Continuous monitoring of the nesting site will continue in the coming days to gather post-emergence data and assess nest conditions, the DENR said.
Officials emphasized that each successful hatchling reaching the sea represents a positive step for biodiversity conservation and a reminder of the importance of sustained environmental protection efforts.
Photo courtesy of DENR 7
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