Phl consulate in Xiamen to bar re-entry of wildlife trafficker

MANILA, Philippines - Environment Secretary Ramon Paje said that the Philippine Consulate in Xiamen, China gave him assurance to prevent the re-entry of a Chinese national allegedly engaged in wildlife trafficking.

In his letter to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz said that his office will closely monitor the possible re-application for visa by Zhang Wen Wei, a Chinese national who was reportedly caught twice by Hong Kong airport authorities for bringing in wildlife species from the Philippines without permits.

“We are very thankful of Mr. Cruz’s decision as there is no room for such kind of tourists, whose intention is to exploit our wildlife resources, especially those considered endemic and endangered,” Paje said.

He also expressed appreciation to Hong Kong authorities for their cooperation in enforcing international laws on wildlife trade and exerting genuine efforts in repatriating the smuggled Philippine wildlife.