Female Leatherback Sea Turtle Found Dead in Guimbal, Iloilo

A Tragic Loss for Marine Conservation

A female leatherback sea turtle was discovered dead along the coast of Barangay Sta. Rosa in Guimbal, Iloilo, on the morning of April 18, 2026, at approximately 11:30 a.m. The turtle, which weighed around 150 kilograms, had washed ashore, sparking immediate concern among local authorities and marine conservation groups.

Rapid Response from Seafdec FishWorld

Upon receiving reports of the stranding, Seafdec FishWorld promptly dispatched a team to assess the situation and potentially rescue the turtle. Unfortunately, when the team arrived at the scene, they found that the turtle had already passed away. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed, and officials are investigating whether the turtle succumbed to natural causes or if human-related factors may have contributed to the tragic event.

Size and Significance

The turtle measured 118 cm in length and 86 cm in width, making it a large example of the species. Leatherback sea turtles are the largest of all sea turtle species and are known for their distinct, leathery shells and migratory behavior, often traveling vast distances across oceans.

A Blow to Marine Conservation Efforts

Leatherback sea turtles are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and fishing-related injuries. The discovery of this deceased turtle underscores the ongoing challenges to marine life conservation and the need for continued protection of these ancient creatures.

As investigations continue into the cause of death, local authorities and environmental groups are urging the public to remain vigilant in safeguarding marine ecosystems and to report any incidents involving stranded sea creatures.