Philippine tarsier spotted in T'boli, South Cotabato cornfield

A Philippine tarsier was spotted in a cornfield in T'boli, South Cotabato, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reported Monday.

In a social media post, the DENR Soccsksargen said the tarsier was observed in Barangay Laconon on June 20.

Locally known as "Mal," DENR said the tarsier is believed by residents to inhabit the surrounding area.

"The sighting encourages and indicates that suitable habitats for wildlife continue to exist within the community despite increasing human activities in rural landscapes," DENR said.

The agency also reminded the public that tarsiers are protected wildlife species and should not be disturbed, captured, handled, or kept as pets.

"Community members are encouraged to help conserve wildlife habitats and immediately report wildlife sightings or concerns to the nearest DENR office or local authorities," DENR said.

On June 23, 1997, President Fidel Ramos issued Proclamation No. 1030, which declare the Philippine tarsier as a “specially protected faunal species of the Philippines."

The Philippine tarsier is an insect-eating primate that plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance by helping control insect populations in forested and agricultural areas. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA News