GENERAL SANTOS CITY – The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of General Santos City has taken custody of two cockatoos intercepted by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) from a motorized banca allegedly manned by Indonesian nationals on March 19 off the waters of Davao Occidental.
According to reports, the PCG apprehended the vessel approximately nine nautical miles southwest of Balut Island, Davao Occidental. The boat, painted in blue, white, and yellow, was carrying two wildlife species alongside undetermined boxes of food supplies. Four Indonesian individuals were found onboard.
Authorities identified the seized wildlife as a Yellow-Crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) and a White Cockatoo (Cacatua alba), both classified as protected species under Republic Act 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. The birds were discovered concealed inside individual thermoses, an apparent attempt to smuggle them undetected.
The Indonesian nationals apprehended were identified as Gilbert Kuhanta, Bryan Makaya Kuhanta, Mariza M. Mahaling, and Khatrina P. Wangka. They may also face legal action for illegal entry into Philippine territory, a violation of Section 37(a)(1) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940.
Following the interception, the Regional Maritime Unit 12 (RMU 12) took custody of the confiscated wildlife before transferring them to CENRO General Santos City for proper care, rehabilitation, and legal proceedings.
This incident underscores the Philippine government’s strengthened initiatives against wildlife trafficking and its commitment to enforcing environmental and immigration laws. Authorities continue their investigation into the case and encourage the public to report any suspicious activities related to illegal wildlife trade or unauthorized entry into Philippine waters.
