Photo by: DENR Central Luzon
OLONGAPO CITY — A marbled water monitor lizard, locally known as bayawak, has been rescued in Subic and turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for assessment and rehabilitation before its possible return to the wild.
Employees of DLA Natural Inc. in Subic recovered the reptile after finding it within their premises and secured the animal to prevent possible harm to the wildlife and nearby personnel, according to DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Olongapo City officer Edward Sernadilla.
The employees subsequently turned over the animal to CENRO Olongapo City for proper handling and initial health assessment.
“Following an initial health assessment, we transferred the rescued animal to the Wildlife In Need (WIN) Foundation Rescue Center within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone,” Sernadilla said.
The rescue facility provides temporary care and rehabilitation for rescued, injured and confiscated native wildlife. The monitor lizard will undergo veterinary evaluation, health monitoring and appropriate dietary care to determine its condition and readiness for possible release into its natural habitat.
Photo by: DENR Central Luzon
The marbled water monitor (Varanus marmoratus) is classified as Least Concern under the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, based on its 2021 assessment. Despite this classification, the species remains protected in the Philippines under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo reminded the public against capturing, harming or keeping native wildlife without proper authorization.
He urged residents and businesses to report wildlife encounters to the nearest DENR office or an authorized wildlife rescue facility.
The agency also advised the public to allow trained personnel to handle and assess wild animals found in residential, commercial or other developed areas, particularly when the animals may be exposed to harm.
The rescue underscores the importance of coordination between private establishments and environmental authorities in protecting native wildlife, particularly in areas where human activities and natural habitats overlap.