Kabacan, Cotabato – The critically endangered female Philippine freshwater crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) rescued in Barangay Sarayan, President Roxas on May 30, 2025, and turned over to DENR-PENRO Cotabato on June 3, 2025, was successfully released back to its natural habitat today, June 4, 2025, in Liguasan Marsh within Kabacan, Cotabato.

The release was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the USM Wildlife Rescue Center, LGU Kabacan, BLGU Cuyapon, and deputized Bantay Pawas/Wildlife Enforcement Officers (WEOs) of Barangay Cuyapon.

The species is protected under RA 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. PENRO Cotabato thanks all partners for their support in conserving this rare and Critically Endangered species.