Over 170 green sea turtle hatchlings released into sea in Aurora

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More than 170 green sea turtle hatchlings were recently released into the sea in Baler, Aurora as part of the government’s conservation efforts, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Central Luzon said.

The hatchlings were released along the coast of Sitios Diguisit and Dicasalarin in Barangay Zabali.

The DENR said that the hatchlings were first found within the Aurora Watershed Forest Reserve.

“Through the ecological functions of green sea turtles, they contribute to nutrient cycling, support marine biodiversity, and help sustain productive coastal habitats. Thus, protecting their nesting sites and ensuring the safe return of these hatchlings to the sea contributes not only to the conservation of the species, but also to the overall health of the marine ecosystem,” said DENR Maria Aurora community head Marivic Santos in a statement.

Moreover, the DENR also held an information campaign among residents, resort owners, and fisherfolk in Barangay Zabali regarding proper handling and reporting of marine turtles nearby.

“Every protected nest, every timely report, and every act of responsible stewardship contributes to giving these threatened marine species a better chance of survival,” said DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo.

According to the World Wildlife Fund, green turtles are the only herbivores among the species, meaning they only feed on seagrass.

They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters. They also migrate long distances.

Although they are considered of least concern, green turtles are threatened by overharvesting of their eggs, the WWF added. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/KG, GMA News