Wildlife crime continues - DENR-7

51 wild animals rescued in 9 months

CEBU, Philippines - Over 50 wild animals were rescued from unauthorized traders in Central Visayas in nine months, evidence that wildlife crime still persists despite intensified enforcement, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-7 said.

The recently-released wildlife apprehension report from DENR-7's Enforcement Division showed that at least 51 wild animals were confiscated in different areas in Central Visayas from January 1 to September 30 this year.

Of the 51 rescued, 30 were classified as birds and the rest reptiles.

Dr. Eddie Llamedo, head of the Regional Public Affairs Office of DENR-7, said the animals are now in their custody and are confined in the agency's own rescue and rehabilitation center in Barangay Cantipla, Cebu City.

"We (DENR-7) have a Wildlife Rescue Center to prepare or acclimatize the animals first (before) releasing them (to the wild.) We have to make sure that they are in good health or condition by providing them with proper nourishment," he said in a text message to The  FREEMAN.

The avian species were African lovebirds, budgerigars, cockatiel, finches and blue nape parrot. The reptiles, on the other hand, were monitor lizards, sailfin lizard, reticulated python and pond turtles.

Trading of these species without the necessary permit is prohibited under Republic Act 9147, also known as the Conservation and Protection of Wildlife Resources and their Habitats.

Among other environmental concerns, DENR-7 is also strengthening its campaign against wildlife trading by strategically positioning its wildlife monitoring units in airports and ports in the region.

Llamedo said those caught possessing these species were charged with criminal liabilities.

"We filed cases or complaints against them before the prosecutor's office and some cases are on trial already before the regional trial court awaiting decisions," he said.

Under RA 9147, mere possession of endangered wildlife species is considered a felony punishable by a jail term of up to two years and a fine of not more than P20,000, while direct involvement in the illegal trade of endangered species carries a penalty of two years imprisonment and a fine of P200,000.

DENR-7 is urging the public to report to authorities any form of wildlife abuse and help them in wiping out illegal wildlife hunting, trading and even collection, in order to boost biological diversity and maintain ecological balance.

DENR-7 officer-in-charge Emma Melana said people, particularly the buyers, can contribute in the eradication of these illegal activities by not patronizing unauthorized trading.

In the same way, wildlife keepers and owners may legally obtain rights to possess wild animals either for pet exhibition or for educational purposes by applying and acquiring a permit or certificate before DENR-7.

The agency has issued at least 281 wildlife permits and certificates since January 1 until September 30, according to the records from the Licenses, Patents, and Deeds Division of DENR-7.

The wildlife farm permit (WFP) is a five-year permit issued to a wildlife keeper giving him the right to develop, operate and maintain a wildlife breeding farm for conservation, trade or scientific purposes.

WFP holders should ensure the safety and proper maintenance of wildlife in their facilities; observe hygiene and strict quarantine procedures in their operation; and assume full responsibility and accountability over any disease outbreak or epidemic that might arise or originate from the facility. (FREEMAN)