AKLAN — In a heartening display of marine conservation, 73 Olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) hatchlings were released into the azure waters off the coast of Numancia on February 6.
The event was spearheaded by the local government unit (LGU) of Numancia in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office Aklan (DENR-PENRO Aklan), underscoring the community’s commitment to preserving marine biodiversity.
The release took place at around 6 a.m., shortly after the hatchlings emerged from eggs laid in a designated conservation area in Barangay Camanci Norte.
Of the 103 eggs carefully monitored during the incubation period, 73 successfully hatched—representing a 67 percent hatching success rate. The figure falls within the typical 50 to 70 percent success range for Olive ridleys. Experts attributed the non-viability of the remaining eggs to fluctuating temperatures during incubation.
Residents gathered along the shores of Camanci Norte to witness the release, as the tiny turtles instinctively made their way across the sand toward the sea. Their movement symbolized both new life and the continuing efforts to protect fragile coastal ecosystems.
Within their critical first 24 to 36 hours of life, the hatchlings energetically crossed the shoreline and disappeared into the ocean.
Engr. Jurlie Zubiaga, PENR Officer of DENR-PENRO Aklan, highlighted the sustained conservation work in the area.
“Since 2019, the temporary conservation area in Camanci Norte has served as a beacon of hope for marine life, sustained through continuous technical assistance from DENR-PENRO Aklan. Together with the unwavering dedication of LGU Numancia, we ensure these nesting grounds are protected, allowing wildlife to thrive for generations to come,” she said.
Meanwhile, Raul L. Lorilla, Regional Executive Director of Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 6, described each successful release as an ecological victory.
“Every single sea turtle hatchling that reaches the water is a triumph for our marine and coastal ecosystem,” Lorilla said. “The fact that Olive ridleys have chosen Numancia as a nesting ground is a testament to the improving health of our shores and the vigilance of our coastal communities. It is a positive sign that our conservation efforts are making a difference.”
The 73 hatchlings form part of a notable rise in sea turtle activity in Aklan province. Similar successful releases have been documented not only in Numancia but also in the nearby tourist destination of Boracay over the past year.
The trend highlights the region’s strengthened commitment to marine conservation amid tourism growth, demonstrating how local communities can balance ecological preservation with economic development./PN
