DENR-Bohol confirms nesting of a Green Sea Turtle fronting a resort in Panglao

PANGLAO, Bohol-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) in Bohol called on the public and the owners of a resort in Panglao, Bohol to help adequately protect the nesting site of a Green Sea Turtle situated along the shoreline fronting Henann Resort in Tawala, Panglao, Bohol, the stretch of coast leading to Amorita Resort is well known for its Green Sea Turtle Nesting. 

“This nesting event is a positive indication that our coastal ecosystems in Bohol continue to provide support to marine biodiversity.  We're asking everyone, residents, visitors and coastal stakeholders – to help us keep this nest safe until the hatchlings make it to the sea,” said PENR Officer Wilson Henson, reminding everyone of the shared duty to protect these fragile habitats.

Green sea turtles are one of the world’s most iconic marine species and play a vital role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds and marine ecosystems. However, they are currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Habitat loss, coastal development, pollution, illegal wildlife trade and climate change all threaten their populations. Thus, each successful nesting event is an important contribution to the survival of the species, Henson said.

According to Henson, local coordination channels reported first the citing of the turtle nest that was immediately confirmed by DENR-Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS), the Panglao Island Restoration and Rehabilitation Program (PIRRP), and the Philippine Coast Guard.

The nesting site lies within a known sea turtle nesting corridor along the coastal stretch going towards Libaong, highlighting the ecological importance of Panglao’s beaches as vital habitats for marine wildlife, the team added.

After confirmation, DENR Bohol responders immediately cordoned the area and established protective measures including temporary cover to prevent disturbance.  This will be replaced by a more suitable enclosure to ensure the nest is adequately protected. The management of the resort has also been advised to cut down on artificial lighting in the vicinity as too much lighting can disorient hatchlings and disturb nesting female sea turtles, Henson said.

“Every wildlife that builds a nest is a sign of hope, and also a call to action. Saving sea turtles is not only the government’s work but communities and partners working together.  With continued protection and good coastal management, we can give these species a fighting chance to survive and thrive,” DENR7 Regional Executive Director Laudemir Salac pointed out the need to work together to protect wildlife.

Henson bared that DENR and partner agencies continue to conduct regular monitoring. The eggs are believed to hatch in approximately 45 to 70 days, and heightened protection and monitoring will be put in place to ensure the safe emergence of the hatchlings.

Residents, tourists and stakeholders are urged to help protect this nesting site, and other similar sites, by not disturbing or coming into contact with the nesting area; not using flash photography and bright lights near the nesting site; disposing of waste properly to avoid marine pollution, and reporting any sightings of wildlife or concerns to local authorities.

“It's a good reminder of the fact that our coastal ecosystems are still alive and can renew themselves when they are protected.  With collective vigilance and responsible stewardship, we can ensure that these remarkable natural events continue to be witnessed by future generations,” Salac added. (Photos: DENR7 & Google Images)