The Department of Environment and Natural Resources regional office (DENR-8) has stepped up its drive to protect wildlife in Eastern Visayas, as the agency celebrates World Wildlife Day. Director Leonardo Sibbaluca, DENR-8 regional director told reporters that his office stands firm on its crusade against poachers of wildlife species, especially those that are endemic to the region. Under Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Act of the Philippines, stiff penalties and fines are meted out for any person who undertakes these illegal acts. Imprisonment of as long as 12 years and a fine of 1 million pesos shall be imposed, if the species are listed as critical.

Cayubit, R. (2015, March 21). DENR intensifies drive against wildlife poaching in E. Visayas. Manila Bulletin, p. 15.