Photo By: DENR Central Luzon
BULACAN – A concerned citizen from Barangay Gabihan, San Ildefonso, Bulacan earned the commendation of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) after responsibly turning over a juvenile Philippine Scops Owl (Otus megalotis) that was found abandoned.
According to Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Baliwag Head Dennis Vergara, the resident took temporary custody of the young owl to protect it from possible harm before immediately surrendering it to the DENR for proper care.
Wildlife enforcement officers from CENRO Baliwag conducted an initial assessment of the owl upon turnover before transporting it to the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) Wildlife Rescue Center in Quezon City, where it will undergo rehabilitation and receive appropriate veterinary care.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo praised the citizen’s responsible action, emphasizing that the protection of the country’s wildlife depends not only on government efforts but also on the active participation of communities.
“We thank the public for their continued support in protecting and conserving our wildlife. Your concern for the environment demonstrates that a mobilized and responsible citizenry is vital to the success of our environmental programs and conservation efforts,” Pablo said.
Photo By: DENR Central Luzon
The Philippine Scops Owl is one of the country’s native owl species and plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance by helping regulate populations of insects and small animals in forest ecosystems.
The DENR reiterated its call for the public to refrain from keeping wild animals as pets or attempting to care for them without proper authorization. Under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, the collection, possession, transport, hunting, and trade of wildlife without the necessary permits are prohibited and punishable under the law.
Citizens who encounter injured, abandoned, or displaced wildlife are encouraged to immediately report the incident to the nearest DENR office or the appropriate authorities. Prompt reporting ensures that rescued animals receive proper assessment, rehabilitation, and, when feasible, are safely returned to their natural habitats.
The DENR continues to strengthen wildlife conservation efforts through law enforcement, habitat protection, and partnerships with communities, recognizing that public vigilance remains essential in safeguarding the Philippines’ unique biodiversity.