Green Sea Turtle Released in Zamboanga Sibugay
ZAMBOANGA. Authorities have safely released a green sea turtle back to its natural habitat in Malinao village, Mabuhay, Zamboanga Sibugay on Wednesday, May 13, three days after it was rescued entangled in a fishnet. The release was announced by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Zamboanga Peninsula on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
The female turtle, found to be in good health, was released into the sea after being tagged with serial numbers PH 0279 and PH 0278. It measured 53 centimeters in curved carapace length and 47.7 centimeters in curved carapace width.
According to the DENR, concerned resident Emelita Tantiado voluntarily turned over the turtle on Sunday, May 10, to the Mabuhay Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (Menro). The office immediately coordinated with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) of Imelda for proper assessment and handling. This marks the third successful green sea turtle tagging and release conducted by CENRO-Imelda this year.
Brahminy Kite Rehabilitation
In a separate incident, a Brahminy kite found with minor wing injuries in Catipan village was surrendered by Elizafe Cantere to the Mabuhay Menro. The raptor was later endorsed to CENRO-Imelda, where personnel found it still unable to fly properly. The DENR stated that the bird was placed under rehabilitation until it regains its strength and ability to fly.
Both conservation efforts were led by Forester William Palisoc with support from municipal environment personnel, biodiversity and enforcement teams, and the Philippine National Police-Maritime Group. The DENR highlighted the important role of residents in protecting wildlife through the immediate reporting and turnover of rescued animals to authorities.
