Marine Turtle released at Great and Little Sta. Cruz Island Protected Landscape and Seascape on July 29, 2022.  The event was spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources -Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) and City Veterinarian with the support and assistance of the Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR). The said marine turtle was rescued by the fishermen at Manicahan, Zamboanga City and rehabilitated at Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology hatchery center for six (6) weeks. It was monitored by City Veterinarian and CENRO to assess the condition of the animal and for proper care and attention. The following data were recorded:

 Species            :           Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)- pre adolescence

  Weight             :           14 kls

Carapace Length:         51 cm

Carapace Width:           47cm

Gender             :           Female

After six (6) weeks of rehabilitation, the marine turtle was ready for release to its natural habitat. It was brought to Sta. Cruz Island beach area for proper releasing and was witnessed by different City Officials and employees. The released was made through a short ceremonial tagging wherein the left and right flippers of the marine turtle were tagged. The right flipper was tagged by Honorable City Mayor John Dalipe with tagged number PH 0671 I and the left flipper was tagged by Chief of Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Unit of CENRO For. Aaron Hachero with tagged number PH 0670 I. The turtle was  tagged to know its location and movement.