๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐๐ง๐ ๐ โ A joint entrapment operation by the Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group in Zambales and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Masinloc Enforcement Team led to the seizure of four exotic cockatiels (๐๐บ๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฉ๐ช๐ค๐ถ๐ด ๐ฉ๐ฐ๐ญ๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ฅ๐ช๐ค๐ถ๐ด) from individuals allegedly engaged in the illegal wildlife trade.
Donaver Guevarra, head of CENRO Masinloc, said the operation, conducted in Iba, Zambales, resulted in the confiscation native birds from Australia.
“Following the operation, the rescued cockatiels were placed under our custody for proper handling and disposition in accordance with wildlife protection laws. We immediately conducted a health assessment of the rescued birds and provided temporary care while facilitating their transfer to an accredited wildlife rescue center, where they will undergo rehabilitation and receive long-term care,” Guevarra said.
He added that the PNP Maritime Group is preparing the filing of appropriate charges against the suspects for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001, which prohibits the unauthorized collection, possession, transport, sale, and trade of wildlife.
Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Marife Castillo of Zambales said the successful operation underscores the importance of sustained collaboration between environmental authorities and law enforcement agencies in combating wildlife crimes.
“This successful operation highlights the strong coordination between the DENR and the Philippine National Police in enforcing our wildlife laws. Through sustained collaboration, we can better protect wildlife from illegal trade while ensuring that rescued animals receive the proper care they need,” Castillo said.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the operation reflects the agency’s continuing commitment to biodiversity conservation and the strict enforcement of wildlife protection laws in Central Luzon.
“The DENR remains steadfast in protecting the country’s wildlife resources through strong partnerships with our law enforcement agencies. We will continue to strengthen our enforcement efforts and ensure that rescued wildlife receives the proper care and protection it deserves,” Pablo said.
Pablo also urged the public to help combat illegal wildlife trade by reporting suspected wildlife-related violations to the nearest DENR office or law enforcement agency.
The DENR reiterated that the collection, possession, transport, sale, or trade of wildlife without the necessary permits is prohibited under Republic Act No. 9147. The agency emphasized that continued cooperation among government agencies, local communities, and the public remains vital in protecting the country’s biodiversity and curbing illegal wildlife trade.
