Spotted a Philippine deer? Don't make it a pet, says DENR

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Wednesday advised the public that endangered species like the Philippine deer (Rusa marianna), which was recently sighted in Marinduque after it was thought to be extinct, are not allowed to become pets. 

“Base po sa ating Wildlife Conservation Act, bawal po na alagaan ito ng ating mga kababayan,” said Cesar Odi, DENR Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office - Marinduque officer-in-charge, in “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon.” 

(Based on our Wildlife Conservation Act, it is prohibited for the public to keep these as pets.) 

“Kailangan po ay nandoon sila sa kanilang natural na tirahan and kung mapunta sa kanilang komunidad, mahalaga po na i-report po agad sa amin dito sa DENR o sa malapit na LGU o barangay para iyong kaukulang aksiyon ay magawa po natin para maibalik po natin sila na ligtas sa natural tahanan,” he added. 

(They need to be in their natural habitat and if you see one in your community it’s important to report to the DENR or the nearest local authorities so the appropriate action could be taken to return them safely to their natural home.) 

The Philippine deer had not been seen on the island for decades until its recent appearance at a town in Marinduque. 

Authorities also reported additional signs of the species’ presence, including footprints in Boac and nearby areas.

The DENR earlier warned against approaching the Philippine deer. It also cautioned against feeding, chasing, capturing, or harming the deer. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News