Help Restore the Home of a Sea Turtle Conservation Hero

Help Restore the Home of Sea Turtle Conservation Hero

Marino Ábrego is a name synonymous with sea turtle conservation in Panama and throughout Latin America. A recent fire severely damaged Marino’s home, leaving him displaced and with limited resources to begin repairs. Though the cost of rebuilding well exceeds $20,000, we are seeking to raise at least that amount to help him begin to recover and return to stability. Even small donations go a long way, and your support will not only help rebuild a home, but will also restore security to a man who has given his entire life to safeguarding nature.

Marino is a marine biologist, educator, and international representative for Panama in marine conservation. Marino has spent decades tirelessly working to protect sea turtles and the ecosystems they depend on. Now, in a devastating twist of fate, Marino is the one who needs protection.

Who is Marino Ábrego?

First and foremost, apart from his professional life, for all of us who know him, we know he is also an incredible human being to his core….someone who is kind, empathetic, generous, noble, loving, peaceful, and passionate. He is a husband, father and dear friend.

Marino is the go-to expert for Panama’s sea turtle conservation efforts, admired across Latin America and recognized globally.

He holds multiple advanced degrees in marine and coastal resource management, environmental education, and higher education. But beyond his impressive academic résumé, Marino is best known for his hands-on leadership in marine conservation, from nesting beach monitoring and bycatch reduction to policy development and environmental education.

As Panama’s current Deputy Director of Coasts and Oceans in the Ministry of Environment, Marino oversees national strategies for protecting coastal and marine resources. He also serves as the country’s representative to major international scientific committees, including:

Marino is also a dedicated educator, teaching biology, environmental science, and sustainable development in both public and private institutions. He mentors young scientists and conservationists across the region, many of whom view him as both a role model and a national treasure.

Marino still finds time to serve his country in other ways, including through volunteering with Panama’s National Civil Protection System and the Panamanian Red Cross.

He gives so much, not because he has to, but because he believes in a better world, one where we care for the creatures we share this planet with, and each other.

A Personal Emergency

Marino has been a guardian for those without a voice, especially sea turtles, throughout his entire career. He’s worked in remote coastal areas, advocated for marine protections at global conferences, and helped shape national conservation policy in Panama. He’s never asked for recognition, and certainly never for help.

But now he needs us.

His home was recently damaged in a devastating fire. The damage was extensive, rendering it unlivable until repaired. Marino has been displaced ever since, living in temporary accommodations while also continuing his conservation work without pause.

The estimated cost to restore his home is WELL over $20,000.

We know there are so many causes deserving of attention and generosity during these trying times. If you have been touched or impacted by Marino’s work and dedication over the years, please consider donating what you can to help rebuild Marino Ábrego’s home.

Whether it's $5 or $500, your support will not only provide material aid, but also solidarity for someone who’s spent his life in service of others. Let’s show Marino that the community he’s been an inspirational member of for so long is here to protect him now.

How You Can Help

Thank you for standing with Marino Ábrego. Let’s help him get home.

With immense gratitude,

Callie A. Veelenturf

Founder and Executive Director, The Leatherback Project