Authorities Arrest Senior Citizen for Illegal Sale of Birds in Bacolod City
A senior citizen selling different kinds of wild birds was arrested during an entrapment operation conducted by CIDG.
A 65-year-old man was arrested in Bacolod City after authorities caught him allegedly selling different kinds of wild birds during an entrapment operation conducted by law enforcement officers.
On Thursday, September 3, 2026, the members of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) together with personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) launched the operation in Barangay 30.
Authorities said the operation was launched after receiving information about the suspected illegal sale of wildlife animals in the area.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Ancheto,” was taken into custody after officers were able to purchase birds worth P70,000 during the operation. According to investigators, the seized birds had an estimated total value of around P200,000.
Among the items recovered from the suspect were a P500 marked bill, 70 sheets of boodle money used during the operation, several cages, and different species of birds. Authorities said the confiscated animals included a green parrot, Philippine Serpent Eagle, Coleto, Martanico, Grass Owl, and Sagaksak.
Officials emphasized that many wildlife species are protected under Philippine law and cannot be captured, traded, transported, or sold without proper permits. The protection of these animals is important in preserving the country’s biodiversity and maintaining the balance of natural ecosystems.
Following the arrest, a case was filed against the suspect on Friday for alleged violation of Republic Act 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. The law aims to safeguard wildlife species and their habitats from illegal activities that may threaten their survival.
Authorities continue to remind the public to report illegal wildlife trading and to avoid purchasing protected animals.
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