DENR-Davao Issues Public Advisory on Wildlife Safety After Snake Encounters
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Davao Region (DENR-Davao) has issued a strong reminder to the public regarding legal responsibilities and safety precautions when encountering snakes or other wildlife. This advisory comes in response to two separate and concerning snake-related incidents that recently occurred within the region, highlighting the need for increased awareness and proper handling of such situations.
Legal Framework and Protection Under RA 9147
In an official statement released on January 26, 2026, DENR-Davao emphasized the importance of Republic Act No. 9147, widely known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. This legislation provides comprehensive protection for all fauna and flora, establishing clear penalties for activities such as hunting, injuring, killing, collecting, trading, or possessing any wildlife species without proper authorization.
While the law does recognize exceptions in situations where human safety is genuinely at risk, any actions taken against wildlife must be strictly proportional and necessary. The department cautioned that acts involving excessive or unnecessary force may exceed the boundaries of justified self-protection and could potentially constitute violations of the law, subjecting individuals to legal consequences.
Recent Snake Incidents in Davao Region
The advisory was prompted by two distinct incidents that raised public concern. In Upper Baclayon, Malalag, Davao del Sur, a tragic event occurred where a 41-year-old man lost his life after being bitten by a king cobra. This incident underscores the potential dangers associated with venomous snake encounters and the critical need for proper safety measures.
Another incident gained significant attention through social media, where a video went viral showing an individual swimming and violently slamming a reticulated python along Cabantian Road in Davao City. The disturbing footage sparked widespread outrage, particularly among animal welfare advocates.
Celebrity and Advocacy Responses
The Cabantian incident captured the attention of prominent figures, including actress Nadine Lustre and her partner, Christophe Bariou, who are well-known for their strong advocacy for animal welfare. The couple took to Instagram to express their profound dismay and anger over the circulating video that depicted the python being brutally mishandled on a Davao City road.
Meanwhile, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) issued a statement condemning the incident and calling for greater public accountability and empathy when interacting with animals, especially wildlife such as reptiles. "Peta is horrified by the video showing a python that wandered onto a Davao street being violently mishandled instead of helped," the organization stated, urging communities to adopt more compassionate approaches.
The individual who uploaded the video, Sarenas Amerson, later explained to SunStar Davao that he was unaware of how the python ended up in the area, which had experienced flooding earlier due to heavy rainfall.
Expert Safety Guidelines from DENR-Davao
DENR-Davao wildlife expert Jose E. Lechoncito provided detailed recommendations for the public when encountering snakes. He advised maintaining calmness, avoiding panic, and refraining from running, as sudden movements might cause the snake to feel threatened and potentially attack. "Leave them alone and distance yourself from them," he emphasized, noting that snakes typically avoid humans, whom they perceive as predators due to their larger size.
For situations where snakes are found inside homes, Lechoncito recommended prioritizing the safety of household members and pets by evacuating them first. When handling becomes necessary, he suggested using long sticks and appropriate protective gear, warning against bare-handed approaches due to snakes' rapid reflexes and potential danger.
He strongly advised against attempting to handle snakes without proper knowledge or training. Instead, individuals should contact authorities or expert snake catchers immediately. Incidents can be reported to local barangay offices, the nearest DENR office, or through emergency services by calling 911 for prompt assistance.
Additional Precautions and Preventive Measures
Lechoncito also highlighted important precautions, such as avoiding contact with snakes that appear dead, as they might be feigning and could still be venomous. Professional assistance should be sought for proper disposal in such cases.
To minimize the likelihood of snakes entering residential areas, he recommended maintaining cleanliness in surrounding environments by regularly cutting tall grass, particularly during summer months. Snakes often seek cool, moist areas to escape heat, making well-maintained properties less attractive to them.
These guidelines aim to foster safer coexistence between humans and wildlife while ensuring compliance with legal protections under Philippine law.
