01/08/2026
OT CAPTURED | 𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗥 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗘𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘁𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗭𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀
SAN FELIPE, ZAMBALES — Three endangered saltwater crocodiles were safely secured and transferred during a coordinated wildlife extraction operation in San Felipe, Zambales.
The operation brought together the San Felipe Municipal Government, El Samba Resort management, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ provincial and community offices in Zambales and Olongapo City, and wildlife specialists from Zoobic Safari.
Marife Castillo, head of the DENR Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office in Zambales, said the participating groups worked together to ensure the safe extraction, handling, and transfer of the animals.
Following the operation, the crocodiles were turned over to Zoobic Safari, according to DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office–Olongapo City Head Edward Sernadilla.
The animals will undergo a comprehensive veterinary examination, receive specialized medical care, and be placed under long-term management in a secure facility equipped to handle large reptiles.
DENR Central Luzon Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the operation demonstrated the importance of cooperation among government offices, private institutions, and wildlife specialists in protecting threatened species while maintaining public safety.
The DENR also reminded the public that the possession, transportation, and maintenance of wildlife are regulated under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.
Individuals and institutions keeping wildlife must secure the necessary permits and continuously comply with government requirements on animal welfare, biodiversity conservation, and public safety.
The agency urged the public not to capture, keep, transport, or transfer wild animals without authorization. Wildlife sightings and animals believed to be in danger should instead be reported to the DENR or concerned local authorities for proper assessment and handling.
The successful transfer of the three crocodiles will allow wildlife professionals to monitor their condition while ensuring they are kept in an appropriate and secure environment.
Courtesy: Pampanga News Now
