Authorities arrested an Indonesian national and rescued over P5.5 million worth of protected wildlife species in Sarangani last week, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

In a statement on Sunday, the PNP said the operation was carried out on June 4 by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), other police units, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-MENRO) of Sarangani.

Law enforcers recovered several protected wildlife species which were allegedly possessed and traded without the permits required under Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which regulates the collection, possession, transport, and trade of wildlife and wildlife by-products.

The arrested Indonesian national is facing appropriate charges for alleged violation of RA 9147.

“This accomplishment is the result of excellent coordination between our police and our partner government agencies. Through joint action, we strengthen the protection of our natural resources and wildlife,” PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

“We remain steadfast in enforcing environmental laws and supporting conservation efforts across the country. Our message is simple: the protection of wildlife and the environment is a shared responsibility, and the PNP will continue to do its part in preserving these resources for future generations,” he added.

Sarangani

Sarangani is a province in the Philippines, located in the Davao Region of Mindanao. It was created in 1992 from the southern part of South Cotabato, with its name derived from a local term meaning “a place of rapid currents” or from a legendary princess. The area is known for its diverse indigenous cultures, pristine beaches, and as a gateway to the Sarangani Bay, which played a role in regional trade and history.