ZAMBOANGA CITY — To capacitate the personnel of the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE) – BARMM who are tasked to perform activities in support of the office’s Wildlife Rescue and Turnover program, a five-day Wildlife Handling and Management Training was conducted by the MENRE-Biodiversity, Ecosystems, Research and Development Services (BERDS) on 1-5 August 2022 in Zamboanga City.

The training aims to enhance the know-how and practical knowledge of the participants on the proper handling, management, and quick assessment of rescued wildlife. Led by BERDS Director Mohamad Ali R. Dimaren, the activity was participated by selected employees from Provincial ENRE Offices, including their Ecosystems Management Specialists and BERDS counterpart.

“The purpose of this training is to capacitate us on how we will perform wildlife rescue such that both the rescuer and the one being rescued are safe,” said Director Dimaren.

“The challenge in handling wildlife is the wildlife itself, especially that most of them tend to be aggressive and are venomous. That is why we have to assess their behavior and approach them appropriately. It’s important to remember that the life of an animal is in no way less precious than ours,” he stressed.

The participants were able to learn how to handle wildlife such as an avian, reptile or mammal during the conduct of their practical activities. Dr. Glenn S. Maguad, Candice Gail Salud, Edgardo Flores, and Lawrence Zamora from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) discussed topics covering laws related to wildlife care and management, species identification, and wildlife rescue center manual of operation.