By Kenneth Marcos 
A faint rustling sound inside a cramped wooden cage caught the attention of a concerned resident in Barangay 177, Caloocan. Inside, an adult Marbled Water Monitor struggled to move, its long tail pressed against the narrow enclosure where it had been kept for months.
Authorities confirmed on Tuesday that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)–Metropolitan Environmental Office (MEO) North successfully rescued the wild bayawak after receiving the report from the resident. The caller reached out upon seeing that the agency had been conducting wildlife retrieval operations in the city.
According to DENR officers, the bayawak had been kept as a pet by a household in the area. The enclosure was too small and did not meet the natural needs of the species, which typically requires space to climb, swim, and forage. While the owner claimed the animal was treated gently, experts noted that the conditions were far from suitable for wildlife survival.
MEO–North’s Enforcement Unit responded quickly and retrieved the reptile without incident. After the rescue, the team transferred the animal to the Biodiversity Management Bureau for medical examination and rehabilitation. Staff members said the bayawak appeared healthy but required a larger, more natural environment to fully recover and return to proper behavior.
The Marbled Water Monitor (Varanus marmoratus) is native to the Philippines and is commonly found in Luzon, Batanes, the Babuyan Group, and Lubang Islands. The species thrives near rivers, swamps, and wetlands. As an omnivore, it feeds on fish, frogs, rodents, birds, crabs, snakes, and even eggs, making it an important natural controller of pests in the ecosystem.
Although classified as “Least Concern” under the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the species still faces threats. Habitat loss, deforestation, and long-held beliefs that bayawaks can be kept as pets or harvested for food continue to place pressure on wild populations.
Under Republic Act 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, it is illegal to capture, possess, sell, or harm wildlife species without proper permits. Violations may lead to fines, imprisonment, or both.
DENR MEO–North reminded the public not to harm or capture wild animals, stressing that wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems. The agency encourages residents to call the nearest DENR office or local authorities if they encounter wildlife outside its natural habitat.
Officials added that community cooperation can save more animals from improper captivity and help protect the country’s biodiversity for future generations.
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