The Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in Tawi-Tawi, covering the entire municipality of Turtle Islands and its adjacent waters, serving as a globally important nesting ground for endangered sea turtles.
This sanctuary includes six islands (Baguan, Boan, Great Bakkungan, Langaan, Lihiman, and Taganak) and one rocky islet (Sibaung), totaling around 242,967 hectares. It stands out as a premier ecotourism destination located at the southwestern edge of the Philippines, close to the Malaysian border.
Home to over 5,000 residents, Taganak is the largest and most populated island, where the office of the Protected Area Superintendent is situated.
Positioned between the Sulu and Celebes Seas, the Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary is an essential conservation area acknowledged as one of the world’s few remaining significant nesting grounds for green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata).
It is the sole major nesting habitat for green sea turtles in both the Philippines and the ASEAN region, ranking as the 11th major nesting site globally.
In 1996, through a Memorandum of Agreement between the Philippines and Malaysia, the sanctuary, along with three nearby islands across the Malaysian border, was declared a Turtle Islands Heritage Protected Area (TIHPA) aimed at ensuring the protection of these endangered species and their nesting sites.
The Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary is crucial not only for its turtle populations but also for the variety of wildlife it supports. At least 71 bird species have been recorded in the sanctuary, including vulnerable species such as the grey imperial pigeon and the Mantanani scops owl. The islands have limited natural vegetation, with Baguan notably featuring 89% coverage of beach forest.
The sanctuary is governed by strict regulations aimed at reducing human impact on the environment. Certain areas are reserved exclusively for scientific and conservation efforts, while others have specific guidelines to safeguard the turtles and their habitats. The support of the local community is vital for the success of these conservation initiatives.
Reaching the Turtle Islands from the Philippines can be quite challenging, as there is no consistent commercial transport available. Travelers usually have to organize their journey through designated routes that include flights and chartered motor launches.
In contrast, visiting the Malaysian side is less challenging, but necessitates reservations through authorized tour operators, given that only a limited number of guests are permitted. Tours typically leave from Sandakan and include an overnight stay in simple chalets on Selingan Island, allowing guests to observe the evening conservation efforts.
Visiting the sanctuary is a unique and immersive experience that allows visitors to witness the natural phenomenon of turtles nesting and hatchlings being released. Additionally, guests can participate in conservation efforts, thus playing a role in safeguarding this essential ecosystem, and engagee in other activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, birdwatching, and enjoying nature walks through pristine coastal forests and mangroves.
The Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary is essential for the conservation of marine turtles and their habitats. This important ecological area not only protects endangered species but also fosters a diverse range of life, making it a crucial site for conservation and ecological research in the region.