About P1 million worth of endangered birds and mammals were seized in Batangas over the weekend, prompting the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to intensify its campaign against illegal collection and transport of wildlife species in the country.

DENR Secretary Ramon Paje said the confiscation of P1 million worth of endangered animals in San Luis, Batangas is just part of a bigger problem on illegal wildlife trade.

“We have to curb this malpractice. We should protect and take pride in our biodiversity, and exert all efforts to prevent the disappearance of any species, especially those that are endemic to the country,” Paje pointed out.

The confiscated wildlife species, believed to have come from Palawan, were turned over last Sunday afternoon to the DENR’s Wildlife Rescue Center (WRC) at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Nature Center in Quezon City for rehabilitation and safekeeping.

The DENR chief noted that Palawan is usually the source of wildlife sold in Metro Manila and even abroad.