HERMOSA, Bataan — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and police authorities rescued an 83-centimeter ball python and arrested a suspect during a joint entrapment operation along the Roman Superhighway in Barangay San Pedro here.

Personnel of the Bataan Maritime Police Station and Hermosa Municipal Police Station arrested the suspect for alleged violations of Republic Act 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, for allegedly trading and transporting the exotic snake without the required permits.

Authorities also filed charges under Republic Act 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, after investigators found that the suspect allegedly used online platforms to facilitate the illegal wildlife transaction.

The rescued ball python (Python regius) was turned over to the DENR through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Pilar, Bataan, for species identification, health assessment, documentation and proper disposition.

CENRO Pilar Chief Marivic Santos said the snake was assessed and found to be healthy and in good condition.

“We will complete the required documentation and evaluation before transferring the python to a designated Wildlife Rescue Center, where it will receive proper care and management,” Santos said.

The ball python is classified as “Least Concern” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, indicating that the species is not currently threatened with extinction globally.

The classification, however, does not exempt the species from Philippine wildlife laws governing its possession, transport, importation and trade.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo commended the coordination between the agency and the police in curbing illegal wildlife trade.

“The DENR is serious in its mission to protect and conserve the country’s biodiversity. This rescue shows how our strong coordination with law enforcement can stop illegal wildlife trade and safeguard our natural resources,” Pablo said.

The DENR reminded the public that RA 9147 prohibits the collection, possession, transportation and trading of wildlife without the necessary permits.

The agency also urged the public to report suspected wildlife violations to authorities to help curb wildlife trafficking and protect the country’s biodiversity. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)