SANTA MARCELA, Apayao – The Apayao Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) successfully rescued a Philippine Palm Civet (Musang) after a concerned citizen from Malekkeg, Sta. Marcela, shared alarming photos of the distressed animal on social media.
Geraldine Pascua, currently stationed at the Animal Quarantine Checkpoint in Sta. Marcela, alerted the PVO, leading to its prompt response.
Responding to the urgent call, PVO immediately reached out to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Community Environment and Natural Resources Office to coordinate a rescue operation. Working hand in hand with Ms. Pascua, the PVO team facilitated the safe retrieval of the injured civet.
Upon arrival at the scene, PVO took charge of the situation, conducting an examination and addressing the medical needs of the male musang. Displaying clear signs of lethargy and weakness, the rescued animal bore wounds that included a 4-5 mm diameter puncture cranial to the left eye, a 5 mm deep laceration on the lower eyelid, and a minor abrasion on the forehead.
Although the exact cause of the injuries remains unknown, the PVO’s prompt response ensured the timely rescue and care of the ailing wildlife. Additionally, the PVO and DENR authorities are reminding the public of the legal consequences associated with collecting, hunting, or possessing wildlife without the requisite government permit, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147).
Furthermore, in a related incident, the PVO recently rescued and provided treatment to an injured Philippine Serpent Eagle. The eagle was subsequently turned over to DENR for further care and rehabilitation. DENR authorities have also received reports of sightings of other wildlife, such as the native “Bayawak” in the area where the musang was found. By JCM
