The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has warned the public against the importation of exotic animals, in light of the increasing cases of the so-called bioinvasion that threaten the survival of local wildlife species. “Some exotic species threaten not only the survival of local wildlife species, but also put human health at risk,” Environment Secretary Ramon Paje said, as he advised the public to refrain from importing exotic species that are considered dangerous. Paje issued the warning following reports of Chinese softshell turtles destroying wildlife habitat in central Luzon. Based on reports, Chinese softshell turtles (pelodiscus sinensis) are adversely affecting the aquaculture and biodiversity in the provinces of Pampanga, Bulacan and Bataan, because they prey on bangus (milkfish) and tilapia fingerlings in fishponds in the three provinces.

Galvez, J. K. (2013, February 18). DENR warns against invasive species importations. The Manila Times, p. A3.