ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9 has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the recent release of a fully recovered adult female Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) into the sea off Barangay Bibilik in Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur.
The marine turtle underwent a series of medical surgeries to remove abnormal growths from its face and body, which were discovered when it was rescued from the same area approximately two months ago.
This achievement marks the first-ever successful surgical operation performed at the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center in Baclay, Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur. The initial surgery took place on June 25, followed by a secondary procedure on August 12. Both surgeries were carried out in collaboration with the Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Veterinary Office, led by Dr. Anita Chua, and were followed by a recovery period of one month and 20 days.
The turtle was diagnosed with fibropapillomatosis, a virus associated with polluted sea conditions, which it had been suffering from for over a year. It was rescued in Barangay Rebokon, Dumalinao, by a local resident who reported the discovery to the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU). The BLGU then coordinated with the Local Government Unit (LGU) to facilitate the turtle’s transfer to the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center.
During rehabilitation, the turtle’s diet consisted of natural foods such as seagrass. It remained at the rescue center until it was fully recovered and ready to return to its natural habitat. On the same day, two Rufous Night Herons were also released in the same area.
A Communication, Education, and Public Awareness session was held in the barangay with local residents. The session emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation and provided insights into the operations of the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center.
In her message, Mayor Cerilles expressed her gratitude to the community for their ongoing support and underscored the vital role of residents in protecting and conserving wildlife.
Barangay officials and residents who facilitated the turtle’s rescue were also recognized during the event.
The successful release of this Green Sea Turtle, following the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center’s first successful surgery, underscores the importance of coordinated conservation efforts. It highlights the critical role that local communities and agencies play in preserving biodiversity and protecting vulnerable species in the region.
According to DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09, the Green Sea Turtle is classified as “endangered” in the updated list of Philippine threatened fauna and their categories. Additionally, all wildlife in the Philippines are strictly protected under Republic Act (R.A.) 9147, known as the “Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.” (JPA/CCP/PIA9 with reports from DENR)
