Thirty-five endangered Olive Ridley sea turtle hatchlings have been released into the waters of Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, following a community-led conservation effort.

Olive Ridley turtles are the smallest of all sea turtles and are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

The release is considered a feat for environmental protection, in an area designated as a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve. The coastal town is known for its marine biodiversity.

The eggs were first discovered in November 2024 when a Puerto Galera resident spotted a nesting turtle on Sabang Beach.

Environmental officers and volunteers then relocated the clutch of 76 eggs to a safer location, protecting them from tidal waves that threatened the original nest.

The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) coordinated the rescue operation, working alongside resort staff, marine guardians, and barangay sea patrol units known as Bantay Dagat.

The hatchlings emerged on January 31st and were released at dawn the following day to give them the best chance of survival.

Marine biologists estimate that only about one in a thousand sea turtle hatchlings survives to adulthood.

Puerto Galera, designated as a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1977, is a critical marine habitat.

Photos: PIO of Puerto Galera