CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – After its turnover to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for assessment, a juvenile reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatis) found in Baliwag City, Bulacan has been returned to the wild.
The snake was found by two young vendors selling their goods near Living Angels Christian Academy in Barangay Sto. Cristo and promptly sought assistance from the DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, enabling authorities to promptly rescue and assess the animal.
“The reptile measured 2.32 feet in length and weighed 132 grams. After the assessment, it was transported to Biak-na-Bato National Park, where it was safely released into its natural habitat,” said CENRO-Baliwag head Dennis Vergara, noting that the juvenile python was healthy, active, and free from injuries.
DENR Region 3 executive director Ralph Pablo commended the two vendors for their environmental awareness and responsible action, noting that community participation remains essential in protecting wildlife.
“This demonstrates how ordinary citizens can make a significant contribution to wildlife conservation. We commend these young vendors for choosing to protect the animal and coordinate with the DENR. Their action helped ensure the safety of both the community and the python,” Pablo said.
The DENR encouraged the public to immediately report sightings of wild animals to the nearest DENR office or local authorities instead of attempting to capture, keep, or harm them.
The DENR also reminded the public that the collection, hunting, possession, transport, and trade of wildlife without the necessary permits are prohibited under RA 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001). DENR-3
