Boracay Emerges as a Sanctuary for Endangered Turtles

Boracay, Philippines – The island of Boracay in Aklan’s Malay town has become a pivotal sanctuary for endangered turtle species, offering a safe haven for their survival and breeding.

According to Philippines News Agency, a branch of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the island hosts a rich diversity of marine life, including the Olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) and the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), which frequently nest there. Additionally, the presence of hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) has been documented in the area.

Opeda detailed the successful release of 113 Olive ridley turtle hatchlings on January 5 at the Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa in Punta Bunga, Barangay Yapak. These hatchlings, which emerged from their nests on January 4, were part of the largest number of turtles released to date, indicating a healthy environment for their development. CENRO has been closely monitoring and updating a database of marine populations and nesting sites since 2018, underscoring their commitment to conservation.

In 2021, CENRO Boracay observed significant nesting activities, including 79 Olive ridley baby turtles and 89 hatchlings emerging in January and February at New Coast Boracay’s beachfront, along with 129 hawksbill and 76 green sea turtle hatchlings released from Puka Beach in August and September.

DENR Administrative Order 9 of 2019 classifies Olive ridley and green sea turtles as endangered, while hawksbill turtles are critically endangered, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts. In response, development such as building construction is prohibited in their nesting areas to preserve their habitats.

Presently, CENRO Boracay anticipates the hatching of over 140 eggs at Puka and Ilig-Iligan beaches. Opeda emphasized the importance of community involvement and awareness, with ongoing massive information drives and the assistance of wildlife information officers to educate the public on the significance of protecting these species.

Community members are encouraged to report turtle sightings to CENRO Boracay for immediate action. Livino Duran, DENR 6 Regional Executive Director, praised the efforts of CENRO Boracay in turtle conservation, noting the importance of marine turtles in ocean ecosystems and the responsibility of society to safeguard them.