THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Zamboanga Peninsula, through the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center, has released eight rehabilitated wildlife species back into their natural habitat in Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte.
The DENR-Zamboanga Peninsula said Tuesday, July 29, 2025, that the rehabilitated wildlife species were released last week in Mount Sinai, Sergio Osmeña.
The released species included: one Asian Palm Civet Cat, three reticulated pythons, one Philippine Hanging Parrot, one Brahminy Kite, one Philippine Box Turtle, and one Yellow-headed Water Monitor Lizard.
Notably, the Philippine Hanging Parrot locally known as "Colasisi," is classified as Critically Endangered under DENR Administrative Order 2019-09.
The DENR-Zamboanga Peninsula said that all animals were previously rescued and rehabilitated at its Regional Wildlife Rescue Center in Baclay village, Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur.
The DENR said the release followed comprehensive medical assessments, ensuring that the animals were healthy and fit to survive in the wild.
The rehabilitation and release is aligned with the mandates of Republic Act 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.
Personnel of the DENR-Zamboanga Peninsula engaged the nearby community, encouraging residents to cooperate by adhering to the DOs and DON'Ts when spotting or encountering these animals near their homes.
By uniting DENR, local government units and local residents, the initiative delivers a powerful message: preserving our native wildlife is a collective responsibility, essential for protecting the Philippines' rich biodiversity.
The release of the eight wildlife species was made in collaboration with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office of Piñan and the Municipality Government of Sergio Osmeña. (SunStar Zamboanga)