21/03/2026
The Philippine deer (Rusa marianna) has reemerged in Marinduque's mountains after decades of presumed local extinction, marking a major milestone for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
This recovery was recently confirmed by camera-trap documentation of 10 individuals in Barangay Makulapnit and by fresh tracks found in Boac, signaling a promising expansion of the species' range.
Despite this success, the Marinduque Wildlife Sanctuary (MWS) warns that the population remains under constant threat from illegal poaching and attacks by wild dogs.
In response, officials have tightened enforcement of wildlife protection laws and partnered with the UP Los Baños to conduct a formal population health study.
Experts emphasize that the long-term survival of this "second chance" for biodiversity depends on sustained collaboration between the government and residents. | via Jonathan Magistrado, ABS-CBN News
(COURTESY: DENR-MIMAROPA)
