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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Makati City, DENR hold training on squirrel population management

Makati City, DENR hold training on squirrel population management

Published Jul 9, 2026 03:19 pm
In response to the growing number of squirrels in villages and several barangays in Makati, the city government, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR‑BMB), held a training on squirrel population management in Barangay Forbes Park.
Photo from My Makati
Photo from My Makati
The training was attended by participants from six villages, as well as personnel from the Department of Environmental Services (DES) and the Makati Veterinary Services Department (MVSD). It was led by DENR-BMB experts Pola Geneva A. Bumanglag and Dr. Michael Angelo S. Sevilla.
During the training, participants were taught proper squirrel population management practices. DENR-BMB experts also discussed the laws governing squirrel population management and demonstrated how to prepare bait for traps used to capture the animals.
In accordance with BMB Technical Bulletin No. 2022-01, the following are the DENR guidelines for the control and eradication of the invasive Finlayson's squirrel (Callosciurus finlaysonii) in the Philippines:
●Keeping squirrels as pets is prohibited: Under the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (Republic Act No. 9147), it is illegal to release, sell, or transport these squirrels.
●Penalties: Violators may face up to eight years of imprisonment or a fine of up to P5 million.
●Mandatory turnover: Individuals keeping these squirrels are encouraged to surrender them to the DENR for proper handling.
●LGU action: Local government units are directed to designate personnel to capture the squirrels as part of efforts to eradicate them from the environment.
The local government said squirrels are considered an invasive species from mainland Asia that can damage trees by feeding on their bark and gnawing on electrical wires.
It added that the squirrels pose a threat to wildlife because they consume fruits and nuts that are also eaten by native birds and small animals, forcing these species to leave their habitats.
Residents were advised not to keep or care for squirrels if they encounter them, as capturing or harming the animals without DENR supervision is a violation of wildlife laws.
Instead, they were urged to report sightings to their barangays or the nearest DENR office so the squirrels can be safely captured and handled by professionals.

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