By Kenneth Marcos 
In a quiet corner of Barangay 177 in Caloocan City, residents woke up after New Year celebrations to an unusual and worrying sight. Amid burned grass and scattered trash left by fireworks, a large snake lay motionless, its body bearing signs of injury.
On January 6, personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Metropolitan Environmental Office–North successfully rescued a reticulated python believed to have been harmed by fireworks used during the New Year celebrations.
Residents said small fires broke out in patches of grass and garbage in their area after some people set off firecrackers and light displays on January 1. The following morning, the python was spotted near the affected area. Locals believed the wild animal had been injured by the heat and flames from the fireworks.
Barangay officials were immediately informed. During the initial inspection, residents noticed burn marks around the snake’s mouth. Thinking the python was already dead, they placed it inside a container, planning to bury it later to avoid health risks.
However, they soon realized that the snake was still alive. The barangay quickly contacted the Enforcement Unit of DENR MEO–North for assistance. A retrieval team was sent to the area, and the python was carefully secured and transported for proper care.
The rescued python was brought to the DENR Biodiversity Management Bureau, where it is now receiving medical treatment and undergoing rehabilitation. Wildlife experts will monitor its recovery before deciding if it can be safely released back into its natural habitat.
Reticulated pythons are native to the Philippines and are protected under wildlife laws. While they may appear dangerous, experts say these snakes usually avoid humans and play an important role in controlling rodent populations, especially near farms and rural communities.
DENR officials said incidents like this highlight the unintended effects of fireworks on wildlife, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas where natural habitats are already limited. Loud noise, bright lights, and sudden fires can cause stress, injury, or death to animals that wander into residential areas during celebrations.
The agency renewed its call for the public to remain alert and responsible, especially during holidays and community events. Residents are urged to immediately report sightings of injured or displaced wildlife to barangay officials or the nearest DENR office instead of handling the animals themselves.
Authorities also reminded the public that harming or killing wildlife is punishable by law. Quick reporting and cooperation can save lives and help protect the country’s remaining natural resources.
As cities continue to grow and celebrations become louder, environmental officials stress the need to balance human activities with care for nature. Simple actions, such as safer celebrations and timely reporting, can make a big difference for wildlife struggling to survive in crowded urban spaces.
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