A man was arrested for allegedly selling a crow illegally in Tupi, South Cotabato.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-SOCCSKSARGEN (DENR-12), the operation was launched after authorities received information about the illegal wildlife trade activities in the area.

DENR-12 said that during the operation, the man was caught selling a crow without the required permits, which violated the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147).

“The following provisions of RA 9147 were specifically violated: Section 27(f) – Collection or possession of wildlife, their by-products and derivatives without the necessary permit and Section 27(h) – Trading of wildlife without proper authorization,” DENR-12 said.

The crow was confiscated and turned over to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) General Santos City for safekeeping.

“It is important to note that although the crow is not classified as endangered, it remains covered under the protection of native wildlife in the Philippines. The unauthorized collection, possession, or sale of any wildlife species, alive or dead, is illegal without the proper permits from the DENR,” DENR-12 said.

“This operation serves as a reminder to the public that engaging in illegal wildlife activities is punishable under the law. The cooperation of communities remains vital in reporting and preventing wildlife crimes,” DENR-12 added.