A female Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) locally known as “Talisayon” was recently released to the shores of Barangay Lupi in Prieto Diaz, Sorsogon on April 16, 2021. The release was led by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Sorsogon.

Ms. Melisa M. Alfache, resident of the said barangay, informed the PENRO Sorsogon

about the turtle which was found trapped in the fishing net used by her husband. Upon seeing the marine turtle, her husband immediately rescued it.

Upon inspection by the PENRO Sorsogon, the turtle which weighs four kilograms measures 43 centimeters in length and 42 centimeters in width. Being found to be in good condition, it was immediately released to its natural habitat.

Under Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2019-09 titled, “Updated National List of Threatened Philippine Fauna and their Categories”, the Green Sea Turtle is considered endangered. Likewise, all wildlife in the Philippines are protected under Republic Act No. 9147, otherwise known as the "Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act".

The DENR V continuously calls on the public to report such incidents and turnover any wildlife to proper authorities for proper handling and release to its natural habitat. Continuous information, education and communication (IEC) campaigns are being conducted by the DENR, which have caused increasing numbers of public turn overs to the office. (With report from PENRO Sorsogon)