Students Release Baby Turtles in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — With the support of Municipal President Estefanía Mercado and under the leadership of the honorary president of DIF Playa del Carmen, Eduardo Asencio, students from the 10-17 educational program of the Program for Attention to Minors and Adolescents at Risk (PAMAR) participated in an environmental awareness event at the Xcacel – Xcacelito turtle camp, recognized as the "Sanctuary of the Sea Turtle."

The activity allowed the youth to understand the importance of protecting endangered species while strengthening their ecological awareness, reinforcing the comprehensive education promoted by DIF.

Representing the honorary president, the general director of DIF, Jesús Rodríguez, highlighted that through this activity, the students not only learn about the biodiversity of the region but also take on the responsibility of protecting the environment.

"These experiences reinforce the commitment of the administration headed by President Estefanía Mercado and Honorary President Eduardo Asencio to environmental care and the human development of our youth," he stated.

One of the most emotional moments was the release of sea turtle hatchlings, where the students were able to observe how the process is carried out, representing a symbol of the collective effort to ensure the survival of the species.

It was noted that, worldwide, there are seven species of sea turtles, of which six nest in Mexico and four nest in Quintana Roo.

The general director, Jesús Rodríguez, presented a recognition to Flora, Fauna y Cultura de México A.C. for its valuable collaboration in the conservation of sea turtles.

For her part, Itzel Trujano, coordinator of the Sea Turtle Program at Flora, Fauna y Cultura de México A.C., explained that the organization protects 14 nesting beaches along the central coast of Quintana Roo. She invited the public, particularly young people, to participate in actions such as keeping beaches free of trash and avoiding the use of artificial lights during the nesting season from May to October.

The visit was attended by DIF Playa del Carmen authorities, including the Official Mayor, Miguel Castro; the director of Child Welfare, Mayra Olvera; and the Donations Coordinator, Mariana Castillo, reaffirming the municipal administration and DIF's commitment to environmental education, youth, and the protection of marine ecosystems.