CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — The discovery of a rare wild species in the upland barangays of Catbalogan City has spurred calls for immediate conservation and protection measures.
Brylle General, a science teacher at a community school in Brgy. Albalate, has appealed to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and government agencies for assistance after a female Rusa Mariana, or Philippine Brown Deer, was found temporarily housed in Brgy. Lobo, about 10 kilometers from the city center.
General reports that the deer has been cared for by barangay residents for the past five years, during which it has become accustomed to human interaction and lost much of its natural instincts. A local resident discovered the injured and weakened deer alone in the forest and brought it to the barangay for its safety.
In addition to his concerns about the deer, General, an active member of the Samar Mountaineering and Outdoor Club (SAMOC, Inc.), has previously reported finding a deceased tarsier on a trail to Barangay Cagutian via San Vicente Road. He suspects that the area may harbor other rare species and has urged the government to act to preserve their habitat.
“I urge animal advocates and government agencies to prioritize the protection and conservation of this primate and other rare wildlife in the area. Their preservation is vital for our ecosystem,” General said.
He noted that during a recent hike in Catbalogan City’s mountainous barangays, he observed that the deer’s genital area was swollen and in need of medical attention.
“I hope this social media post will attract the attention of government officials and animal advocates, prompting them to send veterinary and biological experts to assess this rare animal’s condition,” General added.
Meanwhile, a composite team from DENR-CENRO and Catbalogan City ENRO on Wednesday (August 21) visited Brgy. Albalate to investigate wildlife trade reports, which turned out negative.
“Based on the information gathered, there are no reports of tarsier trapping or sales here,” said Eric Toleran of City ENRO and also a member of SAMOC, Inc.
Toleran did, however, confirm sightings of tarsiers in the forested areas of Albalate, as reported by school officials and barangay residents.
Ador Hurtado, head of the Catbalogan City Tourism and Arts Office, informed that the city is aware of the deer’s situation and has plans to assess its condition. Hurtado also noted that the city has established a team dedicated to documenting rare species sightings.
This team, active for several years, has recorded not only rare species but also historic sites and natural attractions, including churches, rivers, mountains, waterfalls, and caves, for potential promotion and development.
The second phase of the survey and documentation team, led by tourism personnel, is currently focused on exploring and documenting rare species and natural wonders to evaluate their potential for tourism development.
In 2021, Italian cavers, assisted by local guides, discovered several caves in Catbalogan City, including the Cagusipan Cave, where a Megalodon shark tooth was found embedded in limestone formations. The Megalodon, an extinct shark species, lived millions of years ago. | By Ricky J. Bautista
