Presence of Philippine tarsier reported in Lanao del Sur

Lanao del Sur recorded a Philippine tarsier for the first time, according to the Bangsamoro government on Wednesday.

Residents conducting maintenance activities in a partially disturbed forest area in Barangay Diragun, Marogong, within the Piyapayungan Mountain Range, discovered the animal on May 14.

It was then turned over to the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy-Lanao del Sur, which confirmed that it was a juvenile male Philippine tarsier.

"Officials said the tarsier remained alert and responsive throughout the examination, exhibiting normal climbing and jumping behavior," the Bangsamoro Information Office said in a press release.

On May 18, the tarsier was released back into the forested area of Palaw a Piyamanggoan within the Piyapayungan Mountain Range.

“This is not merely an isolated wildlife incident but a strong message from nature itself, reminding leaders and policymakers that environmental protection and biodiversity conservation continue to receive insufficient attention despite the worsening effects of habitat destruction and climate change,” said Lanao del Sur Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Asmarie Labao.

Labao added that the animal might one day be known locally as the "Ranaw Tarsier" depending on additional scientific research and taxonomic analysis. —VBL, GMA News