3 endangered saltwater crocodiles rescued in Zambales

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Philippines — Three critically endangered saltwater crocodiles have been rescued during a wildlife extraction operation in San Felipe, Zambales, according to the office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Central Luzon.

The crocodiles were turned over to the Zoobic Safari, where they will undergo assessment and specialized medical care, Edward Sernadilla, chief of the Olongapo community environment and natural resources office, said.

The rescued wildlife will be placed under long-term management in a secure facility designed for large reptiles, Serdanilla said.

Republic Act 9147 regulates possession, transport and maintenance of wildlife.

People and institutions keeping wildlife must comply with government regulations meant to uphold animal welfare, conserve biodiversity and protect public safety.

Serdanilla stressed the importance of collaboration in conserving threatened wildlife while ensuring compliance with environmental laws.

“We remain committed to enforcing our environmental laws while ensuring the welfare of threatened species through proper conservation measures,” he said.

The public has been reminded that wildlife must be kept and managed in accordance with the law.