MALALAG, Davao del Sur — A 41-year-old man died after being bitten by a king cobra, locally known as banakon, in Upper New Baclayon, Malalag, prompting renewed warnings from environmental authorities on proper response to wildlife encounters.
The victim was identified as Dennis Sapine, a resident of the area. According to an interview aired over DXDC RMN Davao with his cousin, Joya Dumalag, Sapine was walking home from work when he was suddenly bitten by the highly venomous snake. He was immediately rushed to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City, but was declared dead despite medical intervention.
In the wake of the incident, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a public advisory reminding communities that cobras and other snakes are protected wildlife species under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. The law prohibits the harming, capturing, or killing of wildlife except in situations where there is a clear and imminent threat to human life and no other viable option.
The DENR stressed that when cobras or other snakes are encountered in residential areas, residents should remain calm and avoid provoking the animal. Authorities advised the public not to chase, injure, or kill the snake, but instead to gently drive it away from homes if possible and immediately report the sighting to the barangay, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), or the Philippine National Police (PNP). Only trained wildlife responders, the agency emphasized, are authorized to safely capture and relocate snakes to appropriate habitats.
Environmental officials also underscored the ecological importance of snakes, noting their critical role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining ecosystem balance. The DENR warned that indiscriminate killing of wildlife may result in criminal charges, hefty fines, and possible imprisonment under existing laws.
As the rainy season and periods of intense heat often force snakes out of their natural shelters due to flooding or the search for food, the DENR urged the public to stay vigilant, informed, and composed. The agency emphasized that awareness and proper response can prevent both human tragedy and unnecessary harm to protected wildlife.