Cuayan residents found the pangolin in a vacant lot and immediately sought the help of the Angeles City Government Environment and Natural Resources Office.

 

Wildlife officers from the Conservation and Development Division of the DENR here took in the pangolin, which would be transferred to the nearest wildlife rescue center for rehabilitation before releasing to its natural habitat.

 

Philippine pangolins are endemic to four islands in the Philippines, most notably in Palawan. They are also among the most illegally trafficked wildlife in the world, with their scales sought after in certain concoctions, despite having no proven medicinal value.

 

The DENR encourages citizens to turn over captured or rescued wild animals for proper handling and care.

 

Moreover, citizens with exotic pets are asked to have their respective animals registered and to secure necessary permits.

 

Republic Act No. 9147, otherwise known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, prohibits the possession, transport and collection of wildlife species and its derivatives without necessary permits from the DENR. (-30-)