BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi — Two (2) Philippine Slow Lorises and one (1) Reticulated Python were finally wandering back into their respective natural habitats after being released by the Provincial Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy Office of Tawi-Tawi through their Biodiversity, Ecosystems, Research, and Development Services (BERDS) unit.

The Philippine Slow Lorises were rescued on October 14 at Barangay Luuk Pandan, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi by the HRMU-BARMM during its simultaneous operations. The species were then handed over to the Provincial Community ENRE Office District 1.

Upon the receipt of said wildlife, the BERDS team immediately assessed the primates. They found out that one was male, having a measurement of 10 inches, and the other was identified as female, about 10.62 in length. Slow Lorises can grow up to 13-15 inches in length.

Moreover, BERDS found out that the species were not in a healthy condition, and the team then decided to put them in the recovery facility for further observation. Slow Lorises are not kept as pets. It is classified as Endangered based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List and is threatened with extinction.

After recovery, the species were released into their natural habitat on October 20 at Barangay Pasiagan, Bud Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. The release operation was headed by Senior Ecosystem Management Specialist Alih J. Chua, assisted by Ecosystem Management Specialist II Arman-sha J. Diman and Mohammad Alih B. Mali Jr. and Forester II Sherif Moh. Alih was accompanied by the two representatives from PNP MG, RMU-BAR, Tawi-Tawi PCMS Marfie H. Arabani and Abdilla S. Nasaludin.

Furthermore, moving to another place in Tawi-Tawi, a reticulated python, measuring about 8 feet in length and weighing 10 kilograms, was seen actively slithering around the vicinity of Sea Orchids at Barangay Nalil.

The Reticulated Python, the world’s longest reptile, can be found also in the Philippines. To protect this wildlife species, the SOU 1st Maritime Group immediately responded and rescued the python. The python was then turned over to the provincial office of MENRE-Tawi-Tawi for proper release through BERDS.

The Technical team assessed the condition of the rescued python and facilitated its immediate release to a suitable habitat on October 13. An IEC campaign on the Importance of Wildlife Conservation and Protection with locals was also conducted.

One of MENRE’s priority programs is to enhance biodiversity conservation by not only preserving natural habitats such as waterbodies, wildlife sanctuaries, and trees but also by preserving species diversity. The Ministry requests the public to report anyone in possession of wildlife without a legal permit issued. This is illegal under the Republic Act 9147, also known as the “Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.”