‘Bayawak’ rescued in Subic Freeport, brought to wildlife center
SUBIC, Zambales — A marbled water monitor lizard, locally known as “bayawak,” was rescued here and brought to a wildlife rescue center for assessment and rehabilitation.
The information comes from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Central Luzon said on Saturday, Oct. 10.
Edward Sernadilla, head of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in nearby Olongapo City, said workers at a company operating at the Subic Bay Freeport found the reptile on their premises.
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The company personnel secured it to prevent harming the animal and nearby workers.
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The staff turned over the monitor lizard to their office for assessment before it was transferred to the Wildlife In Need (WIN) Foundation Rescue Center inside the freeport, Sernadilla said.
The facility provides temporary care and rehabilitation for rescued, injured and confiscated native wildlife.
The reptile will undergo veterinary evaluation, health monitoring, and appropriate feeding while its condition is being observed to determine whether it can be released back into its natural habitat.
The marbled water monitor lizard (Varanus marmoratus) is classified as ‘Least Concern’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, based on its 2021 assessment.
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However, it remains protected in the Philippines under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001.
DENR Region 3 Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo urged the public not to capture, harm or keep native wildlife.
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Pablo said people must report encounters with wild animals to the nearest DENR office or authorized wildlife rescue facility.
The agency also reminded the public to let trained personnel handle wild animals found in residential, commercial or other areas where they may be at risk. /apl
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