A total of 35 green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) hatchlings were released along the shoreline of Barangay Talisoy in Virac, Catanduanes on April 8, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO) Catanduanes reported on Friday.

“The hatchlings’ release is part of ongoing conservation initiatives aimed at protecting and sustaining marine wildlife, particularly endangered sea turtle species, by ensuring their safe return to their natural habitat,” Vivian Escoto, officer in charge of PENRO-Catanduanes, said in a statement.

Escoto said the hatchlings had been monitored since the start of January, from nesting to hatching, a process that took about 70 days.

She added that the DENR is proposing that the Talisoy-Magnesia shoreline in Virac be declared a Critical Habitat for Marine Turtles, as it has been observed that the area often serves as a nesting site for the species.

She noted that PENRO-Catanduanes has been strengthening its partnership with local government units and stakeholders to preserve the province’s rich marine biodiversity and promote environmental stewardship.

“The office also urges the public to remain vigilant and report any encounters with wildlife species at risk, including illegal captivity or stranding, and to properly turn over such wildlife to authorities for appropriate action,” Escoto added.

After releasing the hatchlings, PENRO-Catanduanes staff carried out a communication, education, and public awareness (CEPA) campaign with selected participants and secured multiple marine turtle nests in the area.

The green sea turtle is classified as an endangered species under Republic Act 9147, or the “Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act,” which prohibits the collection, possession, and trade of wildlife without proper authorization. (PNA)