WE SHOULD be alarmed by reports that some areas in southern Philippines are still being used as entry or transshipment points for the illegal trade of wildlife species such as exotic birds, cats, seahorses, tortoises, and marine turtles.
According to the Philippine Center for Terrestrial and Aquatic Research, the multibillion-dollar black market continues to flourish globally, with the Philippines becoming a major player particularly in the trade of amphibians and reptiles.
The illegal wildlife trade, according to the United Nations, erodes our precious biodiversity, robbing us of our natural heritage and driving species to the brink of extinction. The government must step up its efforts to combat rampant wildlife smuggling.
The full force of the law must be applied on all wildlife smugglers. There can be no excuses in not doing enough to stop the trade in endangered flora and fauna. Authorities must crack down, too, on pet shops that sell endangered animals, and guard all our ports and gateways.
Addressing climate change is very important in preserving wildlife species. Experts estimate that 30 percent of species would be at risk of extinction due to the warming climate.
The Philippines is a mega diverse country but it is also one of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots, with a large number of species either endangered or threatened of extinction. The illegal trade in wildlife does not only threaten endemic species; it could also lead to biodiversity loss.
There needs to be stronger convergence among government agencies and local government units and collaboration with the private sector, civil society and citizens to protect our wildlife species.
