A juvenile brahminy kite (Haliastur indus) and a Philippine long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis philippensis) were voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Barangay Fatima in Salug, Zamboanga del Norte, on Saturday.
Personnel from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Liloy immediately coordinated with partner agencies to ensure the safe retrieval and proper handling of the animals.
The operation was led by the agency’s Enforcement and Monitoring Team with the assistance of local officials.
Authorities said the brahminy kite was retrieved from Rogelio Gumasab, who had cared for the bird for about two months after its nest fell near a creek.
The macaque, meanwhile, was turned over by Anilyn Gumasab.
Both animals were safely secured for assessment and eventual rehabilitation.
Forester II Neil Aquino, team leader of the operation, commended the residents for their cooperation and concern for wildlife protection.
‘The active response of our communities is vital in protecting our wildlife resources. By working together, we safeguard biodiversity and uphold our responsibility to future generations,’ Aquino said.
He also reminded the public that unauthorized possession of wildlife species is prohibited under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, and carries corresponding penalties.
Aquino urged residents to immediately report wildlife sightings and related concerns to the nearest DENR office, local government unit, or the Philippine National Police to help ensure the protection of wildlife in their natural habitats