Wildlife expert warns against feeding monkeys after group gets chased in Cotabato City

A wildlife expert warned residents against feeding monkeys if they encounter the animals.

According to Kuya Kim's report on "24 Oras," Thursday, a group of friends were chased by Philippine long-tailed macaques in Cotabato City after they stopped their motorcycle to give them food.

Jenny Mendoza celebrated her birthday with her friends at the Timako Hill when they saw a monkey on the side of the road during their way home.

"Masaya po na nakita po namin 'yung mga monkey. Nakyutan po talaga kami kaya nag-take kami ng advantage na bigyan 'yung isa kasi parang kawawa daw siya," said Sheila Daniel, Jenny's friend.

However, they were surprised when a tree on the side of the road suddenly moved and more monkeys appeared.

"Nakakita po kami ng more than 10. Hindi po namin ini-expect ganun po pala sila kadami roon," Sheila said.

They screamed in shock and drove their motorcycle away. The monkeys chased them, but they eventually stopped their pursuit.

The Philippine long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis philippensis) is endemic to the Philippines, particularly in Palawan, Visayas, and Mindanao. They are omnivores and their diet includes fruits, flowers, leaves, crabs, and insects. 

Jay Fidelino, a wildlife biologist, advised residents not to feed monkeys and hide any food they are carrying. He also said to avoid eye contact, stay calm, and avoid running.

"Matatalino sila so kapag sinanay mo na nagbibigay ng pagkain especially doon sa areas kung saan sila madalas pinapakain, puwedeng mag-expect sila na mayroon ding ibibigay na pagkain 'yung ibang tao sa kanila," he said.

"Merong iba na puwedeng maging aggressive kapag nasanay siya na binigyan siya ng pagkain tapos hindi sila nabigyan." —MGP, GMA News