ALABEL, SARANGANI – A 7.5-foot male saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) was successfully rescued on February 26 in Purok-6, Barangay Kawas, Alabel, Sarangani, after being found trapped in the waterways of the nearby Lorenzo Aqua Farm.
The rescue operation was conducted by the Sarangani Provincial Wildlife Quick Response Team (SPWQRT) following a report from concerned resident Mr. Reden Tapican. The team collaborated with the Philippine Coast Guard, PNP Maritime, Bantay Dagat, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Offices (MENROs) of Alabel and Malapatan, the provincial local government unit (PLGU) of Sarangani, and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (CENROs) of General Santos and Glan.
The crocodile was assessed by Dr. Roy Mejorada, a veterinarian from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12, who confirmed its species and healthy condition. A DNA sample was collected for further study to determine its origin. The crocodile will be temporarily housed at a DENR-accredited rescue center in Davao for further observation and monitoring.
Atty. Felix S. Alicer, DENR-12 Regional Executive Director, praised the coordinated rescue efforts and emphasized the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation. “The rescued wildlife proves that with the help of the community, we can ensure the safety of the saltwater crocodile. The Department will closely observe and monitor this development and continue operations for possible sightings of the same species,” Alicer stated.
Reports indicate that sightings of saltwater crocodiles in the coastal areas of Sarangani Province have been occurring since August-September 2024. In response, the DENR, through the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources-Protected Area Management Office of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (PAMO-SBPS), implemented measures such as nightly crocodile patrols along the eastern portion of Sarangani Bay, the installation of 23 reflector signs in known sighting areas, including Barangay Kawas, and educational campaigns across 42 coastal communities.
According to the Biodiversity Management Bureau Technical Bulletin No. 2020-02, the breeding season for saltwater crocodiles in the Philippines generally spans from November to August, extending into September in Southern Mindanao due to seasonal variations.
Although no established crocodile populations have been documented within the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any wildlife sightings or encounters to the SPWQRT via the SBPS hotline numbers: 0909-618-9917 (Smart) or 0995-305-0306 (Globe).