NUEVA ECIJA — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional Wildlife Rescue Center (RWRC) has released four rehabilitated wild animals into designated release sites within the Aurora Memorial National Park.

The animals included one Philippine serpent eagle (Spilornis holospilus), two Philippine cobras (Naja philippensis), and one reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus), according to Artemio Almazan Jr., head of the DENR Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office in Nueva Ecija.

Before their release, the animals underwent rehabilitation, veterinary care, species-specific feeding management, and health assessments at the RWRC to determine whether they were physically fit to survive in the wild.

The center’s resident veterinarian conducted health assessments to evaluate the animals’ overall condition and readiness for release into their natural habitats.

Almazan said the RWRC also implements biosecurity measures and species-specific feeding programs to maintain the health and welfare of wildlife under its care during rehabilitation.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the successful release of the animals was the result of coordinated efforts among DENR field offices, local communities, and other partners.

“Every successful wildlife release is a result of coordinated efforts, from the proper turnover of rescued animals to their rehabilitation, health assessment, and eventual return to suitable habitats,” Pablo said.

He also urged the public and local partners to continue coordinating with the DENR in protecting and conserving wildlife.

The DENR reminded the public to report injured, displaced, or distressed wildlife to the agency or its field offices and to avoid unnecessarily handling or keeping wild animals.

The agency said proper coordination allows authorities to carry out appropriate rescue, rehabilitation, and disposition procedures. (DENR Central Luzon Press Release)