MIDSAYAP, COTABATO – Two wildlife rescue operations in Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat have successfully returned a Samar cobra and a Philippine serpent eagle to their natural habitats, underscoring ongoing conservation efforts under the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (Republic Act 9147).
In Pigcawayan, Cotabato, a sub-adult Samar cobra (Naja samarensis) measuring 1.5 meters and weighing 800 grams was rescued on August 5, 2025, after it was found in the yard of a residence in Brgy. Presbitero. Homeowner Ryanmark Doctolero reported the discovery to the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) after noticing a series of missing chicks in his property.
MENRO personnel coordinated with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Midsayap, which took the snake into custody. After four days of observation, veterinarian Dr. Salcedo confirmed the animal was in good health before it was released into a suitable forest habitat. The Samar cobra, native to Visayas and Mindanao, is known for its ability to spit venom at potential threats, which can cause severe pain or permanent blindness.
Meanwhile, in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, a Philippine serpent eagle (Spilornis holospilus) was rescued by a concerned citizen in Brgy. Pansud after the bird fell to the ground due to bad weather. The incident was reported by a barangay official to the MENRO Lebak, which transferred the eagle to CENRO Kalamansig on July 22, 2025.
Veterinarian III Marjorie Amoyen conducted a thorough health assessment before the eagle, measuring 78 centimeters in length with a wingspan of 110 centimeters, was released on July 28, 2025, in the forest of Brgy. Limulan, Kalamansig. The DENR noted that the serpent eagle’s presence in the area reflects a healthy ecosystem and active natural food chain.
Both CENRO offices reminded the public to report any wildlife encounters to the nearest DENR or MENRO office and reiterated that it is illegal to harm, capture, or trade wildlife under RA 9147. Violations are punishable by law as part of the country’s commitment to preserving biodiversity.