Environmental officials released 81 Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings released into the sea in Surigao City on Wednesday morning.

The hatchlings were the offspring of an Olive Ridley turtle found nesting in Banahao Beach in Barangay Sabang last Feb. 23.

“Last night (April 16), 81 turtles were hatched from the 150 eggs monitored during the nesting activity of the Olive Ridley turtle,” the Surigao City information office said in a statement Wednesday.

The release of the hatchlings was facilitated by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

“This milestone underscores the continued success of our local conservation efforts, emphasizing the critical importance of preserving the natural habitat of marine species,” the local government said.

The city government acknowledged the support of local resort owners in the efforts of the local government and other concerned agencies to ensure the safety of Olive Ridley turtle’s nesting up to the hatching period.

“This event serves as a testament to the community’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Surigao City’s rich biodiversity,” it said. (PNA)