MANILA, Philippines — The US last week turned over essential equipment and supplies to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to boost its work in combating wildlife trafficking and providing holistic care for rescued wildlife in its custody, its embassy in the Philippines said Wednesday.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) made the donation — comprised of tools worth over P2 million as well as a system intended to prevent wildlife crime — as “part of its support to strengthen wildlife law enforcement and protection in the Philippines.”
The equipment, valued at P2.3 million, will be used for the proper handling and management of wildlife, particularly those rescued from illegal trade, the embassy said.
Among the items donated were conservation tags, armored gloves, snake tongs, forceps and microchips, which the embassy said would aid in the efficient handling and tagging of live animals. The items will be distributed to DENR rescue centers across the country.
In addition to helping DENR veterinarians and personnel properly examine and care for rescued and injured wildlife, these tools will also speed up the animals’ rehabilitation and recovery as well as their eventual return to their natural habitats.
