Local authorities in Angeles City rescued 25 endangered animals over a five-month span, including a Philippine pangolin, reticulated pythons, and Philippine long-tailed macaques. The animals were immediately turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper handling and veterinary care.
A Five-Month Rescue Operation
The rescue operation, conducted from January to June 2026, was spearheaded by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) and the City Veterinary Office, led by Rosendo Makabali and Dr. Christian Xyric Arcilla, under the directive of Mayor Carmelo Lazatin . The rescued wildlife includes three Philippine long-tailed macaques, seven reticulated pythons, one Philippine pangolin, one grass owl, twelve scorpions, and one Philippine scops owl . The Philippine pangolin, also known as the scaly anteater, is classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and is one of the most trafficked mammals in the world . Reticulated pythons, while not endangered, are protected under Philippine law, as they are native wildlife species that cannot be kept without a permit.
Compliance with Wildlife Protection Laws
The turnover ensures these species receive proper veterinary care, with the pangolin now under the care of the DENR Palawan office and the macaques transferred to the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center . The operation highlights local compliance with Republic Act 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which prohibits the unauthorized possession, transport, and collection of wildlife species . Mayor Carmelo Lazatin II has committed to continuing the city's conservation and protection of wildlife, including the apprehension of illegal activities that threaten the city's environment and natural resources .
