By Kenneth Marcos 
Manila Zoo became more than just a tourist spot last week—it served as a learning ground for environmental frontliners tasked with protecting wildlife in Metro Manila.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – Metropolitan Environmental Office (MEO) West successfully held a two-day “Lakbay Turo” training at Manila Zoo for its field personnel. The activity was led by the DENR Enforcement Unit and focused on strengthening knowledge and skills in handling wild animals.
The training was a follow-up to a recent coordination meeting between DENR-NCR and Manila Zoo officials, led by OIC Director Rodelina M. De Villa and Parks and Recreation Bureau Director Alpio Morabe Jr.
Learning by doing: Up-close with wildlife
Through actual observation and interaction with animals inside the zoo, DENR staff were taught how to properly identify, handle, and care for different species—especially endangered or threatened ones. The training emphasized safe and humane methods, aligned with environmental laws.
Zoo experts shared critical information about animal behavior, natural habitats, and proper care techniques. They also explained the rescue and rehabilitation procedures for wildlife, including what to do when animals are injured, illegally captured, or displaced by urban development.
Participants were trained to respond to real-life situations, such as retrieving a wild animal found in an urban area or coordinating with rescue teams for species protection.
Empowering frontline protectors of nature
This initiative is part of DENR-NCR’s broader capacity-building program to improve the skills of field staff in enforcing wildlife and environmental protection laws. With Metro Manila being a densely populated and highly urbanized region, field workers often encounter wildlife in distress or at risk from human activity.
By giving their teams hands-on learning, DENR aims to boost confidence and accuracy when it comes to wildlife response operations.
Environmental experts stress that strong frontline capacity is key to protecting biodiversity in cities, especially amid threats like illegal trade, pollution, and climate change.
Protecting nature starts with knowledge
The training also supports the DENR’s long-term goal of fostering sustainable and resilient cities, where both people and wildlife can coexist.
Through efforts like this, the DENR hopes to deepen awareness among its staff and the public that wildlife deserves protection—not only in forests or mountains, but also within city boundaries where many species still live quietly among us.
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