CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — A marbled water monitor (Varanus marmoratus), locally known as bayawak, has been turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Olongapo City for proper assessment and rehabilitation.
DENR-Community Environment and Natural Resources Office-Olongapo City officer Edward Sernadilla said the reptile was found in the premises of the DLA Naturals Inc. in Subic town and after an initial health assessment was transferred to the Wildlife In Need (WIN) Foundation Rescue Center at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone,
The facility provides temporary care and rehabilitation for rescued, injured, and confiscated native wildlife. The monitor lizard will undergo veterinary evaluation, health monitoring, and appropriate dietary care while its condition is assessed for possible release back into its natural habitat.
Endemic to the Philippines, the marbled water monitor is classified as Least Concern under the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, based on its 2021 assessment. However, the species remains protected under RA 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001).
DENR Region 3 executive director Ralph Pablo reminded the public to avoid capturing, harming, or keeping native wildlife and to immediately report wildlife encounters to the nearest DENR office or authorized wildlife rescue facility.
The agency also urged the public to help protect wildlife by allowing trained personnel to safely handle and assess animals found in residential, commercial, or other areas where they may be at risk. DENR-3
