A 10.5 foot Reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) was captured in Bacolod City in the province of Negros Occidental.
In the early morning of November 7, 2022, a team from the Bureau of Fire Protection–Special Rescue Force (BFP-SRF) in Negros Occidental got a call from a certain Andrew dela Torre who reported that a python (locally called “Magkal”) is seen hiding on top of a Mango tree and had killed one of their chickens.
The Office of the BFP-SRF headed by Inspector Jun Michael A Manuel together with Bacolod PNP Station 3 then went to the area and captured the snake using improvised equipments. It was seen on the top of a Mango tree at dela Torre’s residence at Purok Santol, Brgy. Mandalagan, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. The team packed the snake inside a sack then turned it over to DENR PENRO Negros Occidental for proper identification, check up and release at around nine o’clock of the same day.
The Reticulated python was released into a forested area in Don Salvador Benedicto, which is part of the Northern Negros Natural Park (NNNP) on November 8 after ensuring that it is in good condition. Personnel of the NNNP led the team that released the said wildlife into its natural habitat.
“We commend the responsive move of the BFP-SRF Negros Occidental and the active assistance of our PENRO Negros Occidental as well. Wildlife has their proper place in our ecosystem, and we need to understand that they should be protected as well. They are not enemies rather, they help keep our ecosystems balanced,” said regional executive director Livino B. Duran of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2019-09 otherwise known as “Updated National List of Threatened Philippine Fauna” classified the Reticulated python as Other Threatened Species (OTS). Reticulated python is under threat from adverse factors such as over collection throughout its range and destruction of their habitats.
Reticulated pythons are usually large and are quite aggressive feeders. Although their temperament can be calm, they can cause danger to their owners. Nonetheless, they play a good role as a natural pest control.
One of DENR’s priority programs, enhanced biodiversity conservation focuses not only on preserving natural habitats like watersheds, wildlife sanctuaries and mangrove habitats but also preserving the diversity of species./DENR 6
