The number of critically endangered hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) and green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in Apo Reef doubled during the period when the vast underwater ecosystem off Occidental Mindoro province was closed to visitors during community lockdowns imposed to stop the spread of the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Former camping sites on Apo Island, which is largely covered with mangrove forests, have also become nesting grounds that park managers are now considering to declare permanently off-limits, even when tourism fully resumes. Krystal Dayne Villanada, protected area superintendent of Apo Reef Natural Park, said 29 sea turtles were sighted on the beach as of Aug. 31, or almost twice the 15 seen inside the 15,799.23-hectare natural park in 2019.

Cinco, M. (2020, September 8). Apo Reef turtle sightings increase during lockdown. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A8.