DENR to inspect City zoo

CEBU, Philippines - An inventory of wildlife animals at the Cebu City Zoo is underway, according to regional environment officials.

“Next in our list is the city zoo. We will conduct an inventory of wildlife animals there. We are just fixing out schedule and availability of our people,” Biodiversity Conservation and Wildlife Management Section (BCWMS) chief Ariel Rica announced Saturday during the release of four zoo-kept green sea turtles at the Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary.

Protected Area and Wildlife Division (PAWD) 7 Chief Jose Layese added they have no definite schedule but plans to do it soon.

“We have to recognize that PAWD does not have a lot of people. We are trying to arrange the schedule of Ariel (Rica) and staff to inspect the animals at the city zoo,” Layese said.

Cebu City veterinary officer Dr. Alice Utlang welcomed the announcement. She commends the agency for seriously doing something about wildlife handling in Cebu.

“We have no problem with an inventory. Maayo nuon na kay nag lihok sila og serious sila sa ilang trabaho,” Utlang told The FREEMAN. (It’s good that they are serious with their work.)

Zoo manager Giovannie Romarate also said they are very much willing to submit for an inventory.

“But before coming here, they must inform us ahead of time. I might be out for a meeting if they come unannounced,” Romarate told The FREEMAN.

Visits from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) officials are not new since the newly retired wildlife official often dropped by the zoo, having his residence just nearby.

“We are used to DENR visits. Sir Kid Yray used to come here often because his house is also in OPRRA. In fact, he has conducted an inventory of wildlife animals,” he added.

Cebu City Zoo houses about 18-23 different species of wildlife animals with 20 employees, Romarate said.

“We are five casual employees including myself, 12 job orders, and three volunteers,” the zoo manager enumerated.

Meanwhile, Utlang said she will urge the city council to also regulate private shows and exhibitions in establishments.

“I am not pleased with these wild animals being displayed in malls and hotels. I could not understand why they were given permits,” Utlang added, saying she will request the council through Councilor Nida Cabrera to pass an ordinance on this. — (FREEMAN)