The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has highlighted the public’s role in wildlife conservation after two Cotabato residents voluntarily turned over 12 rescued wildlife species to its provincial office on Sept. 10.

“The recovery highlights growing community initiative and adherence to Republic Act (RA) No. 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, and its implementing rules and regulations,” the DENR said in a news release on Wednesday.

“After learning that the collection, possession, transport, and keeping of wildlife are strictly regulated, the residents coordinated directly with environmental authorities.”

The animals consisted of two Philippine Palm Civets (Paradoxurus philippinensis), two Philippine Ducks (Anas luzonica), four White-Eared Brown Doves (Phapitreron leucotis), three Spotted Doves (Spilopelia chinensis), and one juvenile White-Breasted Waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus).

The DENR said it brought all 12 to the Kidapawan City Veterinary Office, where they underwent a thorough medical examination and were certified fit for release.

The four White-Eared Brown Doves, three Spotted Doves, and the juvenile White-Breasted Waterhen were subsequently released into their natural habitat, while the two Philippine Ducks and two Philippine Palm Civets were placed at the temporary wildlife rescue center of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) for observation before their release.

From rescue to conservation

The DENR said the turnover began with two separate encounters with wildlife: resident Joel Gastones rescued one Philippine Palm Civet from a rubber farm, while another civet was turned over after being cared for by another resident, Isagani Bagyo.

Instead of keeping the rescued animals, the residents sought help from environmental authorities, allowing the DENR to assess their condition and determine the appropriate course of action for each animal.

The DENR highlighted the importance of such public cooperation, noting that rescued wildlife may require veterinary assessment, temporary care, and monitoring before they can be safely returned to the wild.

The turnover also helps prevent wildlife from remaining in private captivity without the required legal authorization.

The DENR said RA 9147 regulates the collection, possession, transport, and keeping of wildlife, reminding the public that encountering or rescuing wildlife does not mean keeping the animals at home.

The agency said these rescues must be promptly reported to the nearest DENR office or wildlife authority so they can be properly assessed and handled. (PNA)