A concerned citizen safely rescued and turned over a juvenile Philippine long-tailed macaque to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring its proper care and rehabilitation. Authorities commend the public’s role in wildlife protection and remind everyone that under Republic Act No. 9147, capturing or keeping wildlife without authorization is strictly prohibited. (DENR Central Luzon)
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — A concerned citizen played a key role in the rescue of a juvenile Philippine long-tailed macaque in Barangay Kalawakan, Doña Remedios Trinidad, authorities reported on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
The resident voluntarily surrendered the animal after temporarily securing it and reporting the incident to the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Doña Remedios Trinidad. The rescued wildlife was subsequently turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Baliwag for proper handling.
According to Dennis Vergara, head of CENRO Baliwag, the office immediately facilitated the transfer of the animal to the Biodiversity Management Bureau Wildlife Rescue Center in Quezon City, where it will undergo appropriate care, rehabilitation, and monitoring.
Vergara emphasized the importance of proper wildlife handling, noting that animals such as macaques should remain in their natural habitat.
Photo By: DENR Central Luzon
“Wildlife belongs in its natural habitat, and proper authorities are best equipped to ensure its survival and well-being. We urge the public to refrain from capturing or keeping wildlife as pets. Instead, immediately report such cases to the DENR or authorities so we can respond appropriately and help safeguard our wildlife,” he said.
Meanwhile, DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo commended the concerned citizen for responsibly coordinating with authorities, highlighting the vital role of the public in wildlife conservation efforts.
Pablo also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any incidents of illegal wildlife trade or possession, stressing that such actions contribute significantly to biodiversity protection.
He further reminded that under Republic Act No. 9147, the unauthorized capture, possession, transport, and killing of wildlife are strictly prohibited.
Authorities reiterated that cooperation between communities and government agencies remains essential in protecting the country’s wildlife and preserving biodiversity. (Jason de Asis)