President Roxas, Cotabato – A female Philippine freshwater crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis), classified as Critically Endangered based on DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09, was rescued by residents of Barangay Sarayan on May 30, 2025 and officially turned over to DENR-PENRO Cotabato on June 3, 2025.

The crocodile, approximately 6.6 feet long and 60 kilograms, was found in a creek by local resident Alfred Villanueva and companions while searching for frogs. After observing it return to the same spot, they secured the animal and reported it to barangay officials for safety and proper handling.

Upon notification by Barangay Chairman Renato Lagdamen, PENRO Cotabato and CENRO Matalam immediately dispatched a validation team. The crocodile was confirmed healthy following a veterinary assessment by Dr. Jessa Del Remonde of Kidapawan City and is now under temporary care at the USM-Wildlife Rescue Center, in coordination with LGU Kabacan, for further observation prior to its release into the wild.

The Philippine freshwater crocodile is one of the world’s rarest crocodilian species and is endemic to the Philippines. It is protected under Republic Act No. 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act) due to threats from habitat loss and human activity.

PENRO Cotabato and CENRO Matalam commends the swift action of local residents and barangay officials and encourages the public to report wildlife sightings to the nearest DENR office to help protect endangered species.