Sea Turtles Find a Haven in Hamilo Coast

February 2017

A haven for sea turtles is located only 90 minutes away from the bustling Metro Manila cityscape. SM’s premiere ecotourism development Costa del Hamilo combines comfortable urban living with nature and adventure, giving guests the chance to see a miracle of life – sea turtles hatching only a few steps away from their rooms.

Exactly 46 Olive Ridley hatchlings emerged from their nest on the morning of February 5, 2017. Lucky guests were able to witness the hatchlings rush their way across the sand and into the sea. WWF-Philippines representatives, President and CEO Joel Palma as well as Costa del Hamilo Project Manager Ruel Bate were present to facilitate the event and to give a short talk on sea turtles and ocean conservation. WWF-Philippines has been a long-time partner of Costa del Hamilo in delivering quality conservation initiatives in the Pico de Loro general area.

Says WWF-Philippines Hamilo Coast Project Manager Ruel Bate, “This is a sign that the coasts of Hamilo Coast are vibrant enough to sustain life. Large charismatic creatures like sea turtles are indicators of healthy seas.”

Olive Ridley turtles are considered Vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Endangered Species. WWF works around the world to protect and conserve sea turtles and many other endangered species.