BALER, Aurora (PIA) — Authorities rescued a rare Northern Luzon giant cloud rat (Phloeomys pallidus) from a residence in Casiguran, Aurora and safely released back into its natural habitat.
The rodent was turned over after a resident reported its presence inside his house, prompting a coordinated response from the local government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to ensure its safety.
Casiguran Environment and Natural Resources Office Forester Arianne Francia said a DENR Wildlife Officer examined the Northern Luzon giant cloud rat, locally known as “bu-ot” or “kurimaong,” and confirmed that it was healthy and ready for release back into its natural habitat.
She said the rescue team returned the rodent to the same forested area where it was found to reduce stress, help regain natural bearings, and improve chances of surviving in the wild.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the Northern Luzon giant cloud rat as of “Least Concern,” although habitat loss remains a threat and some related cloud rat species face higher risk of extinction.
These species helps forests grow by dispersing seeds and improving soil quality, a role that has earned them the description as “silent gardeners” among conservation workers and environmental advocates.
Francia said the decision of the resident to report the animal instead of harming or keeping it reflects rising public awareness that cloud rats and other wildlife deserve care, respect, and legal protection.
She urged the public to follow Republic Act No. 9147, otherwise known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which bans the capture, sale, and harm of wildlife and provides penalties for violations.
Through this effort, the local government and the DENR continue to strengthen forest and wildlife protection to preserve biodiversity, support ecosystem balance, and sustain healthy environments for present and future generations. (CLJD/MJRD, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
