By Sarwell Meniano/Philippine News Agency
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Eastern Visayas has renewed its call for the conservation of civet cats following the recent rescue of an injured rare animal species in Guiuan, Eastern Samar.
In a statement sent to reporters on Aug. 5, DENR Eastern Visayas director Tirso Parian Jr. reiterated his call to the public to report wildlife crimes and violations immediately since these are considered threats to the ecosystem.
“[The] civet cat plays an important role in the ecosystem by propagating the seeds it spews after eating. This natural process contributes to growing a variety of plants and fruit trees in the forests,” Parian said.
The Guiuan Marine Resource Protected Landscape and Seascape (GMRPLS) office rescued a Philippine palm civet locally known as “garong” at the town center of Guiuan on July 24.
Rescuers discovered the adult civet cat had injuries on its left eye and mouth. It was immediately brought to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)-Guiuan field office for proper care and treatment.
After recovering, the civet cat was released back to its natural habitat in Guiuan town on July 29.
“Our office is grateful to everyone who shows concern for our wildlife and their natural habitat. Our call continues – let’s keep our wildlife such as the civet cats alive and protected in their natural habitat,” Parian added.
Civet cats are considered one of the country’s rare and endemic species. This wildlife excretes coffee seeds considered as the world’s most expensive coffee, making it a high-value animal for some households and coffee manufacturers. (PNA) – jlo
