Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay — A captive male Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) named “Alai” bit a man who allegedly entered its enclosure at Laih Wharf on Monday, prompting the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region IX to take swift action to safeguard both humans and wildlife.
DENR IX Regional Executive Director Arturo E. Fadriquela immediately instructed the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Zamboanga Sibugay and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Kabasalan to address the incident and prevent further risks. The individual bitten is believed to be mentally unstable and had reportedly trespassed into the crocodile’s pen.
As part of the emergency response, DENR IX ordered the temporary closure of the facility. “No Entry” and danger signs were posted, a rope cordon was installed, and the crocodile’s cage was shielded with tarpaulin canvass to limit visibility and prevent unauthorized access. Personnel from CENRO Kabasalan, in coordination with local barangay and municipal officials, were deployed to guard the area and ensure public safety.
The Provincial Wildlife Quick Response Team (PWQRT) was also dispatched to conduct an on-site investigation. The team carried out interviews, assessed the enclosure, and observed Alai’s behavior. Based on their findings, they recommended several urgent safety measures including the installation of a second perimeter fence, improved warning signages, 24/7 personnel deployment, and stricter control of public access.
CENRO Kabasalan also coordinated with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and local police to ensure the victim received prompt medical care. The caretaker and witnesses were interviewed to determine the circumstances leading to the intrusion. With the help of the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) and local tourism office, Alai was secured in a safer section of the enclosure to minimize further danger.
Alai, who has been in captivity since it was a hatchling, is registered under Certificate of Wildlife Registration (CWR) No. 9-120-ZS. A 2022 assessment by Crocodylus Porosus Philippines Inc. (CPPI) recorded the reptile at 10 to 12 feet in length. Originally housed at Barangay Balucanan, Siay, the crocodile was transferred to its current, larger enclosure at Laih Wharf in the same year.
DENR IX reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of both people and wildlife through continuous monitoring and evaluation of the facility, while also supporting improved management practices for captive animals.