Cotabato Province is set to form an inter-agency task force to strengthen the protection of wildlife and ensure the proper enforcement of the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001, or Republic Act 9147.
Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza ordered the move after two Philippine Eagle cases were recorded in the province, including the death of one eagle in Arakan and the rescue of another in Magpet.
The task force will bring together key provincial offices, the Cotabato Police Provincial Office (CPPO), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to improve coordination in enforcing the law and protecting wildlife.
The move followed the death of a Philippine Eagle in Arakan after it was electrocuted. A necropsy later found that the eagle also had two wounds caused by air-gun pellets.
In Magpet, another Philippine Eagle was rescued with three air-gun pellet wounds. The eagle is now recovering at a veterinary clinic in Davao City.
Mendoza stressed the need to inform the public that harming or threatening wildlife is punishable under Philippine law.
Under Sections 27 and 28 of RA 9147, killing or destroying wildlife may carry imprisonment of six months to 12 years and a fine of P10,000 to P1 million.
Other violations also carry penalties. Prohibited acts in critical habitats may result in one month to eight years in prison and fines ranging from P5,000 to P5 million.
Meanwhile, causing injury that results in disability or damage to the reproductive system of wildlife may carry imprisonment of one month to six years and fines of P5,000 to P500,000.
Mendoza recently called a coordinative meeting attended by representatives from the CPPO, DENR, Office of the Governor, Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Office of the Provincial Veterinarian, and Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, whose official is currently serving as Interim Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer.
The meeting focused on improving coordination among government offices and law enforcement agencies in enforcing RA 9147.
The proposed inter-agency task force will lead efforts to strengthen wildlife protection, coordinate responses to wildlife cases, and help ensure that those who violate the law face the proper legal action.
The provincial government said the task force is part of its effort to protect wildlife resources and prevent further harm to endangered species such as the Philippine Eagle.
