07/06/2026
PNP RESCUES OVER ₱5.5-M WORTH OF WILDLIFE, NABS FOREIGN NATIONAL IN SARANGANI
The Philippine National Police (PNP) continues to strengthen its campaign against environmental crimes following the successful rescue of more than ₱5.5 million worth of protected wildlife species and the arrest of a foreign national in Sarangani Province.
The operation was conducted on June 4, 2026, by personnel of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), in coordination with the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Sarangani Police Provincial Office, local police units, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-MENRO) of Sarangani.
Authorities recovered several protected wildlife species allegedly being possessed and traded without the permits required under Republic Act No. 9147, otherwise known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which regulates the collection, possession, transport, and trade of wildlife and wildlife by-products in the country.
The arrested suspect, identified only by the alias “Son,” an Indonesian national, is facing appropriate charges for alleged violation of RA 9147.
The successful operation underscores the PNP's commitment to protecting the country's biodiversity and natural resources. It also supports the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, through intensified law enforcement efforts against environmental and transnational crimes.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., lauded the operating units and partner agencies for their coordinated efforts.
"Ang tagumpay na ito ay bunga ng mahusay na koordinasyon ng ating mga kapulisan at mga katuwang na ahensya ng pamahalaan. Sa pamamagitan ng sama-samang pagkilos, mas napapalakas natin ang proteksyon sa ating likas na yaman at wildlife resources," PGEN Nartatez said.
"We remain steadfast in enforcing environmental laws and supporting conservation efforts across the country. Our message is simple: the protection of wildlife and the environment is a shared responsibility, and the PNP will continue to do its part in preserving these resources for future generations," he added.
The operation also complements the environmental protection and sustainability initiatives being advanced by the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., recognizing the importance of conserving the nation's natural heritage and maintaining ecological balance.
The PNP assures the public that it will continue to work closely with the DENR and other partner agencies in implementing environmental laws and protecting wildlife habitats, in line with its commitment to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.
(PNP-PIO)
