GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Authorities in Region 12 have intensified their crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking after an entrapment operation in Polomolok, South Cotabato led to the arrest of an alleged online wildlife trader and the rescue of critically endangered Philippine hanging parrots locally known as “kulasisi.”
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 12 (DENR-12), through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office of General Santos City (CENRO-Gensan), in coordination with the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit XII (RACU 12), successfully carried out the operation on May 8 following reports of wildlife being illegally sold through social media platforms.
According to DENR-12, information regarding the possible wildlife-related entrapment operation was relayed to CENRO-General Santos City at around 12:27 p.m. after RACU 12 tracked online posts allegedly offering endangered birds for sale.
The discovery prompted immediate coordination between environmental authorities and cybercrime operatives, highlighting the growing use of digital platforms in illegal wildlife trade activities.
At around 4 p.m., personnel from DENR-CENRO-General Santos City mobilized to Polomolok to assist in the enforcement operation. Authorities later apprehended the alleged seller at approximately 5:42 p.m., identified as John Mark Mercado Balal.
Confiscated during the operation were 10 heads of Philippine hanging parrots, a species classified as “Critically Endangered” under the Philippine Red List pursuant to DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09.
Environmental authorities stressed that the seizure underscores the urgent need to strengthen wildlife protection and biodiversity conservation efforts in the country, especially amid increasing cases of illegal online wildlife trading.
The operation was conducted in line with Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which prohibits the unauthorized collection, possession, transport, and trade of wildlife species without proper permits and legal documentation.
DENR officials said appropriate legal procedures and documentation are currently being undertaken in coordination with concerned law enforcement agencies to ensure the proper filing of charges against the suspect.
CENRO-General Santos City reiterated its commitment to intensifying wildlife law enforcement initiatives across the region and urged the public to remain vigilant and actively report illegal wildlife activities to authorities.
Authorities emphasized that protecting endangered species such as the Philippine hanging parrot is crucial in preserving the country’s ecological balance and natural heritage for future generations.