CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has rescued and secured four saltwater crocodiles in separate operations in Pampanga and Zambales, highlighting the agency’s continuing efforts to protect wildlife while ensuring public safety.

In Pampanga, the DENR rescued a 15-year-old female saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) after a concerned citizen reported its presence in Barangay San Agustin, Magalang.

The rescue operation was carried out by the DENR Pampanga Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office’s Wildlife and Water Resources Management Section and Forest Protection, Surveillance and Intelligence Section in coordination with barangay officials.

Roger Encarnacion, DENR provincial head in Pampanga, said the crocodile measured about 3.10 meters long and was found to be in good condition following an assessment.

To ensure the safety of both the animal and nearby residents, the crocodile was transported to the Global Zoo and Theme Park Alliance Inc., an accredited wildlife rescue center inside the Clark Freeport Zone, where it will undergo veterinary assessment, rehabilitation and proper care.

In a separate operation in San Felipe, Zambales, the DENR secured three saltwater crocodiles through a coordinated wildlife extraction involving the local government of San Felipe, El Samba Resort, the DENR Provincial and Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices in Zambales and Olongapo City, and wildlife specialists from Zoobic Safari.

Marife Castillo, provincial environment and natural resources officer in Zambales, said the multi-agency operation ensured the safe extraction, handling and transfer of the animals.

DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office-Olongapo head Edward Sernadilla said the crocodiles were turned over to Zoobic Safari, where they will undergo comprehensive veterinary assessment, receive specialized medical care and be placed under long-term management in a secure facility designed for large reptiles.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said both operations demonstrate the importance of public vigilance and inter-agency cooperation in wildlife conservation.

“The responsible action of concerned citizens and the strong collaboration among local government units, partner institutions and the DENR allow us to respond promptly while ensuring the safety of both wildlife and communities,” Pablo said.

He reminded the public not to capture, harm or keep wild animals as pets and urged residents to immediately report wildlife sightings to the nearest DENR office or local government unit so trained personnel can respond appropriately.

The DENR also reiterated that Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, strictly regulates the possession, transport and maintenance of wildlife and requires individuals and institutions to comply with government regulations to protect biodiversity, animal welfare and public safety.

Although the saltwater crocodile is listed as a species of Least Concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, it remains protected under Republic Act No. 9147 in the Philippines. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)