The turtles that grace our reefs are more than just highlights for divers. They are ambassadors of the health of our seas. With training, knowledge, and collaboration, we can ensure they remain here for generations to come. We at Cebu Fun Divers are proud to be part of this journey.

On September 19–20, Moalboal hosted its first Marine Turtle First Response Training, a landmark event spearheaded by Vice Mayor Jinky Hanika together with Cebu Technological University (CTU), LAMAVE (Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute Philippines), DENR, and the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape management. 

The program brought together local stakeholders, dive professionals, and conservation partners with one shared goal: to strengthen Moalboal’s capacity to respond to turtle strandings.

Stranding Response and Rescue Training

The first day focused on the essentials of responding to marine turtle strandings. Sessions were led by Dr. Alessandro Ponzo and his assistant Kalei Suza from LAMAVE, who introduced participants to turtle biology, species identification, and the threats that often lead to strandings. Training topics included:

• Proper handling and restraining techniques
• First aid, hydration, and stabilizing weak turtles
• Data collection, documentation, and reporting
• Practical rescue response drills

The hands-on exercises gave participants confidence to respond quickly and responsibly when faced with a stranding, from safe handling on the beach to deciding whether a turtle should be released, observed, or rehabilitated.

Insights from Experts

Dean Robinson S. Amihan Jr. of CTU presented Moalboal’s growing record of turtle strandings, noting cases of entanglement, hook injuries, and plastic ingestion. Despite limited facilities, CTU has already saved and released several turtles thanks to the tireless efforts of Dean Amihan, his faculty, and students.

Dr. Ponzo, assisted throughout by Kalei Suza, reminded the group that response goes beyond equipment. Governance, training, and clear responsibilities are essential for long-term success. He also highlighted common stranding scenarios such as buoyancy problems, hook injuries, entanglement, and disease, and explained the importance of protocols that safeguard both turtles and responders.

Building Toward a Turtle Rescue Center

One of the most important conversations during the training was Moalboal’s ambition to establish a Turtle Rescue Center. Participants discussed how such a facility could provide immediate care for stranded turtles while also serving as a hub for marine education and awareness. The idea is not just to create tanks and pools, but to build a community-led center with clear responsibilities, DENR support, and integration with local tourism and conservation initiatives.

A Community Commitment

This two-day training marked the beginning of a stronger, more coordinated turtle stranding response network in Moalboal. With leadership from Vice Mayor Hanika, scientific expertise from CTU, and the guidance of Dr. Ponzo and Kalei Suza from LAMAVE, Moalboal is taking real steps to protect its sea turtles.

Cebu Fun Divers – The sea is calling and I must go!