Watching baby sea turtles crawl toward the ocean for the first time is something you don’t forget. We experienced this at Project CURMA in Brgy. Ili Norte, San Juan, La Union, and it was one of those moments that reminded me why we travel with kids. Audrey and her best friend Inarah stood right at the front, eyes wide, as hundreds of tiny hatchlings scrambled across the sand.
This wasn’t just a tourist activity. It felt meaningful. The kind of experience that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Our Experience
We heard about the turtle release through Isabel, who had been living in La Union. She mentioned that Project CURMA posts updates on social media whenever a release is scheduled, so she made sure that we get to experience that during our visit. Timing worked in our favor. They announced a release during the weekend we were there.
A small crowd had already gathered near Project CURMA’s headquarters when we arrived. Most were tourists like us who caught wind of the event online or from locals in the area. Everyone had their phones out, waiting for the release to begin.
The volunteers set up a makeshift pathway on the beach. On one end was a small box filled with about 200 newly hatched turtles, all crawling over each other in a restless pile. On the other end, just a few meters away, was the sea.
Audrey and Inarah managed to get a front-row spot. I was nervous they’d accidentally step on one of the hatchlings, but the volunteers were kind and kept everyone at a safe distance while still letting the kids see everything up close.
When the timing felt right, one of the volunteers opened the side of the box. That’s when it started.
The whole process took about 30 minutes. The first wave of hatchlings reached the edge of the water, and the ocean started pulling them in. One by one, they disappeared into the surf. They have started the first swim of their lives.
Audrey watched the whole thing without saying much. Afterward, she kept asking questions. “Will they come back?” “What if they get lost?” I told her that the ones who survive will return to this same beach in 10 or more years to lay their own eggs. She seemed to like that idea.
About Project Curma
Project CURMA stands for Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions. It was established in 2010 with one clear goal: protect and conserve endangered sea turtles and their marine habitat.
The story behind it is just as important as the work they do now. When the organization first started, poaching was rampant along the shores of La Union. Sea turtles were being taken, and their eggs were being sold. Project CURMA didn’t just try to stop it. They worked with the community. They educated former poachers and offered livelihood support, turning them into sea turtle patrollers who now help protect the very creatures they once threatened.
Today, Project CURMA focuses on addressing threats like poaching, climate change, deforestation, and plastic pollution. Their approach is community-centered and nature-based. They partner with local groups, schools, and businesses to build a culture of care and action.
Everything they do ties back to biodiversity, environmental care, and climate change awareness. The turtle releases are just one part of a much bigger mission.
Planning Your Visit at Project Curma
If you want to witness a turtle release, the turtle season usually runs from August to March, sometimes extending into May. Project CURMA announces releases on their social media pages, so I recommend following them ahead of your trip.
The releases happen in Brgy. Ili Norte, San Juan, La Union. The beach is easy to access, and the headquarters is clearly marked. Parking can be tight during peak season, so arriving early helps.
There’s no entrance fee for the turtle release itself. It’s open to the public. However, donations are welcome and go directly toward their conservation efforts.
A few things to keep in mind:
The hatchlings have a short burst of energy after they hatch, lasting about an hour. That’s the window they use to crawl back to the sea. The volunteers time the release carefully to give the turtles the best chance of making it safely into the water.
Stay on the designated pathway. The volunteers will guide you. Don’t touch the turtles. Let them make the journey on their own as much as possible.
Bring your phone or camera, but be mindful of where you’re stepping. It gets crowded, and the last thing anyone wants is to accidentally harm a hatchling.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great opportunity to talk about conservation and why protecting marine life matters. Audrey walked away with a deeper appreciation for the ocean, and that alone made the trip worth it.
This experience reminded me why I started this blog. It’s not about ticking destinations off a list. It’s about finding places that teach us something, that bring us closer as a family, and that leave us feeling like we’ve been part of something bigger than ourselves.
If you’re planning a trip to La Union, I hope you get the chance to witness a turtle release. It’s one of those rare moments that’s equal parts educational, emotional, and entirely worth your time.
How You Can Help
Project CURMA operates as a non-profit. They rely on support from communities, organizations, and individuals who believe in their mission. If you’d like to contribute, there are a few ways to get involved.
Send a Donation
Your donation supports their vital work of protecting sea turtles, their habitats, and the communities they work with. Every bit helps them continue their conservation efforts.
Volunteer
If you have time and want to be more hands-on, Project CURMA welcomes volunteers. It’s a chance to share your skills while contributing to something meaningful. You’ll be part of a community creating rewarding work for a cause that matters.
Join Their Programs
Throughout the year, Project CURMA runs various programs where individuals, organizations, and businesses can participate. It’s a way to connect with the community while supporting their mission.
Project Curma Contact Information
Address: Ili Norte, San Juan, La Union, Philippines
Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm
Email: info@projectcurma.org
Mobile Number: +63 968 678 4444
Facebook: facebook.com/projectcurma
Website: projectcurma.org
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