Boracay Island: A Paradise for Marine Biodiversity

Boracay Island- The world’s famous white beach is also a paradise  of marine biodiversity.

At the start of the year, Boracay Island has witnessed significant wildlife conservation efforts with the release of marine turtle hatchlings on January 3, 2025 and the reticulated python on January 14, 2025.

Thanks to the proactive employees of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) in Boracay Island led by CENR Officer Joanette Opeda, the animals are given a safe release back to the wild.

A total of thirty-nine (39) healthy Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) marine turtle hatchlings are released at the beach area of Movenpick Resort & Spa in Punta Bunga, Barangay Yapak. The hatchlings are part of a nesting activity monitored since November 4, 2024.

After one hatchling emerged from its nest on January 2, the decision was made to excavate the nest the following day to collect any remaining hatchlings. With the cooperation of the resort management, the release was scheduled in the late afternoon, coinciding with sunset.

 Resort management, staff, and tourists, witnessed the activity and assure that they will continue to coordinate with the DENR for future biodiversity conservation. Sea turtle hatchlings release has become part of the tourist attraction in the island.

Another conservation effort was done by DENR-CENRO Boracay with the release of a Reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) which was safely turned over and released back into the wild.

A local resident, Mr. Niel Brian Mediavilla, found the python in his boarding house and promptly reported it to CENRO Boracay. The animal weighs approximately two kilograms and measures around 1.5 meters in length. It was released into a forest area in Barangay Yapak.

DENR 6 Regional Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla commends the efforts of CENRO Boracay and its local residents in helping maintain the island’s biodiversity.

“Indeed, Boracay Island is a haven for the nesting female Olive ridleys. These ongoing wildlife conservation efforts in the island highlight our commitment to protecting and conserving the unique wildlife – each with a crucial role to play in the delicate balance of the island ecosystem of Boracay,” said DENR 6 OIC Regional Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla./DENR 6