53 sea turtle hatchlings spotted in Sipalay resort

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – The Bantay Dagat and the City Agriculture Office released 53 sea turtle hatchlings back to the sea in Barangay Nauhang, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental last Monday.

This, after a 63-year-old staff and some guests were surprised to see them inside the premises of Saka-Saka Beach Resort at 2 a.m.

In a Facebook post of the local government, Bantay Dagat coordinator Edsel Toledo said these hatchlings probably went directly to the resort, as they are attracted to the first light they see.

Upon the discovery, they secured the hatchlings in a tub with seawater and informed the city government.

Toledo stressed to the resort staff and guests the importance of the sea turtles in the ecosystem.

He said that the presence of sea turtles indicates a healthy and clean environment.