Question & AnswerQ&A (JOINT DENR-DA-PCSD ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 01, S. 2004)
The law is known as the "Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act," also known as Republic Act No. 9147.
The primary policy is to conserve the country's wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainability, promoting ecological balance and biological diversity.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has jurisdiction over terrestrial plants and animals including turtles and wetland species, while the Department of Agriculture (DA) has jurisdiction over aquatic critical habitats and aquatic resources. The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development manages wildlife in Palawan province.
It applies to all wildlife species in the Philippines including protected areas and critical habitats, as well as exotic species subject to trade or captivity, excluding domesticated species as defined by DENR and DA.
Threatened species refers to wildlife that are critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, or other categories of species whose populations are at risk of extinction or decline.
Penalties include imprisonment from six years and one day to twelve years and/or fines ranging from One Hundred Thousand Pesos to One Million Pesos.
Permits include Wildlife Farm or Culture Permit, Wildlife Collector’s Permit, Gratuitous Permit, Local Transport Permit, Export/Import/Re-export Permit, and Wildlife Special Use Permit, with validity ranging from 1 month to 5 years depending on the permit type.
Introduction of exotic species requires prior clearance from the Secretary or authorized representative, environmental impact study, prior informed consent of local stakeholders, and compliance with biosafety standards. Introduction into protected areas or critical habitats is prohibited.
Bioprospecting requires execution of an undertaking with the Secretary, obtaining prior informed consent from indigenous cultural communities or local stakeholders, disclosure of intent and scope, and, if foreign entities are involved, collaboration with local institutions.
Their duties include seizing illegally traded wildlife, arresting violators, assisting in surveillance, filing complaints, delivering seized wildlife to rescue centers, acting as witnesses in court, prosecuting cases where necessary, and coordinating with other agencies.