The DENR, together with the LGU of San Felipe, El Samba Resort, CENRO Olongapo City, and Zoobic Safari, successfully secured three critically endangered saltwater crocodiles during a coordinated wildlife extraction operation in San Felipe, Zambales.
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – Three critically endangered saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) were safely secured during a coordinated wildlife extraction operation in San Felipe, Zambales, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said.
In a statement on Friday, the operation was conducted through the joint efforts of the Local Government Unit of San Felipe, the management of El Samba Resort, the DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Olongapo City, and wildlife specialists from Zoobic Safari.
Edward Sernadilla, head of CENRO Olongapo City, said the crocodiles were safely extracted and turned over to Zoobic Safari for proper care and long-term management.
“Following the extraction, the crocodiles were turned over to Zoobic Safari, where they will undergo comprehensive veterinary assessment, receive specialized medical care, and be placed under long-term management in a secure facility designed for large reptiles,” Sernadilla said.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo emphasized that the successful operation highlights the importance of collaboration among government agencies, local stakeholders, and conservation partners in protecting threatened wildlife while ensuring public safety.
“This successful operation reflects the value of strong collaboration in protecting our country’s wildlife. We remain committed to enforcing our environmental laws while ensuring the welfare of threatened species through proper conservation measures. We also remind the public that wildlife must only be kept and managed in accordance with Republic Act No. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act to protect both biodiversity and public safety,” Pablo said.
The DENR reiterated that Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, strictly regulates the possession, transport, collection, and maintenance of wildlife species in the country. Individuals and institutions authorized to keep wildlife are required to comply with government regulations to ensure animal welfare, biodiversity conservation, and public safety.
Saltwater crocodiles are classified as critically endangered in the Philippines due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, and human encroachment. The DENR said continued conservation efforts and adherence to wildlife protection laws are essential to safeguard the country’s remaining populations of the species. (Jason de Asis)