Thirteen rehabilitated wildlife species have been given a second chance at life in the wild, thanks to a biodiversity restoration initiative spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) IX. This significant milestone underscores the commitment of conservation stakeholders to preserving the region’s rich biodiversity.
Courtesy of DENR Zamboanga Peninsula.
On November 19, twelve wildlife species were released in the rehabilitated forests of TVI-Canatuan, Barangay Tabayo, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte. The release was led by the Conservation and Development Division–Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section (CDD-PAMBCS) of the DENR IX, in collaboration with CENRO Siocon, TVI Resource Development Phils., Inc., the Barangay Tabayo local government unit, and the Indigenous People’s community. This initiative supports the rehabilitation of mined-out areas in Sitio Canatuan as part of DENR Administrative Order No. 2022-04, which advocates for biodiversity conservation in mining operations.
The species reintroduced into their natural habitats included four Philippine Serpent Eagles (Spilornis holospilus), four Brahminy Kites (Haliastur indus), three Reticulated Pythons (Malayopython reticulatus), and one Yellow-headed Water Monitor Lizard (Varanus cumingi). Their release represents the second wildlife reintroduction in the area, following a similar effort in 2022.
In a parallel effort, on November 20, a Giant Scops Owl (Otus gurneyi) was released at the Baclay-Pulacan Reforestation Project in Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur. This species, native to the Philippines, is critical to the balance of forest ecosystems.
A Collaborative Effort for Biodiversity Conservation
The success of these wildlife releases highlights the collaboration among government agencies, private organizations, and local communities. By restoring native species to their habitats, these efforts play a crucial role in reversing the ecological damage caused by human activities, such as mining. The reintroduction in Siocon is particularly significant as it aligns with the goal of rehabilitating Sitio Canatuan’s mined-out areas into thriving ecosystems.
The Indigenous People’s community of Barangay Tabayo also plays a vital role in these efforts, ensuring that the restored habitats are respected and protected. Their participation reflects the growing acknowledgment of indigenous knowledge in sustainable environmental management.
Sustaining the Momentum for Conservation
The DENR and its partners remain steadfast in promoting wildlife conservation and habitat restoration. These releases are more than just symbolic; they are critical steps toward rebuilding the region’s ecosystems and fostering coexistence between humans and nature.
With continued support and collaboration, initiatives like these will not only help safeguard threatened species but also enhance ecological resilience in the face of climate change. As the rehabilitated wildlife of Zamboanga Peninsula soars, slithers, and roams through their renewed habitats, they embody hope for a thriving, biodiverse future.
