Sea turtle dies from plastic ingestion in Capiz waters

A female green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) measuring 86 centimeters long and 79 centimeters wide, and weighing approximately 67 kilograms, was found dead by a fisherman in the waters off Sitio Nipa, Barangay Culasi, Roxas City, Capiz, on the afternoon of June 29, 2025.

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Capiz, led by Dr. Ernest C. Federiso, coordinated with the Capiz Provincial Veterinary Office, the Department of Agriculture Regional Office VI, and the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) in Tigbauan, Iloilo for assessment.

A necropsy was conducted on the turtle’s remains.

Examination revealed severe abnormalities in the digestive tract, with dense masses of undigested fibrous algae and seaweeds mixed with nylon-like threads inside the intestines.

Tissue samples were collected and preserved at SEAFDEC for further laboratory analysis.

All findings were coordinated with and reviewed by Dr. Lerisa F. Balopeños of the Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL).

PENRO Capiz has urged local government units to intensify anti-plastic pollution campaigns to protect marine ecosystems and prevent similar incidents.

“We cannot stand by while our precious marine life suffers,” said Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region VI Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla.

“This tragedy serves as an eye-opener and a reminder of the impact of plastic pollution on our marine ecosystems,” Lorilla added.

“Let us join hands in the fight to protect our oceans and the incredible creatures that call them home. Our marine environment and the future of its wildlife depend on our collective action now.”