SALUG, Zamboanga del Norte — Highlighting the growing awareness of wildlife conservation in local communities, two protected species were voluntarily turned over to environmental authorities on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
A juvenile Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus) and a Philippine long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis philippensis) were surrendered by residents of Barangay Fatima, according to a report from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Liloy.
The turnover was the result of individual efforts by concerned citizens who had been providing temporary care for the animals.
- The Brahminy Kite: Rogelio Gumasab surrendered the young bird of prey. Gumasab had reportedly cared for the raptor for approximately two months after discovering it near a creek where its nest had fallen.
- The Macaque: In a simultaneous turnover, Anilyn Gumasab surrendered the long-tailed macaque, locally known as a matsing, which she had also been keeping under her care.
Upon receiving the report, CENRO Liloy’s Enforcement and Monitoring Team, led by Forester II Neil Aquino, coordinated a safe retrieval operation.
- Initial Assessment: Both the bird and the monkey were secured and given a preliminary health check.
- Safe Transfer: The animals are set to undergo formal assessment and rehabilitation to determine if they are fit for eventual release back into their natural habitats.
- Community Cooperation: Forester Aquino commended the residents for their proactive response, noting that “the active response of our communities is vital in protecting our wildlife resources.”
During the operation, authorities reminded the public that the unauthorized possession, collection, or trade of wildlife is strictly prohibited under Republic Act No. 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.
| Species | Conservation Status | Importance to Ecosystem |
| Brahminy Kite | Protected (Least Concern) | Scavenger and predator that helps control pest populations. |
| Long-tailed Macaque | Vulnerable (IUCN) | Key seed disperser that aids in forest regeneration. |
The DENR continues to urge citizens to report any wildlife sightings or cases of injured animals to the nearest DENR office, local government unit, or the Philippine National Police rather than attempting to domesticate them.
The successful turnover in Salug serves as a positive example of how local participation can safeguard biodiversity for future generations in Zamboanga del Norte.