A Philippine cobra was rescued in the forestlands of San Clemente, Tarlac, according to a report by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on 2 April 2026.

The DENR stated that the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Camiling rescued and safely released the Philippine cobra (𝘕𝘢𝘫𝘢 𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴) back into the wild.

CENRO Camiling chief Amalia Fajardo said the snake was voluntarily surrendered by a concerned citizen from Barangay Baldios, Santa Ignacia, Tarlac.

Following a health assessment confirming that the animal was in good condition, the cobra was released back into its natural habitat.

"The voluntary turnover reflects the growing public awareness on wildlife protection and underscores the importance of collaboration between communities and government agencies in safeguarding biodiversity," Fajardo said.

Endemic to the Philippines, the Philippine cobra is found in Luzon and is known for its highly potent venom and its ability to spit venom defensively.

It is currently classified as Near Threatened under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List and is included in CITES Appendix II, which regulates its international trade.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo emphasized the importance of public cooperation in wildlife conservation.

"We thank concerned citizens who choose to turn over wildlife to the proper authorities instead of harming or keeping these animals. Their actions help protect species that play an important role in maintaining ecological balance," Pablo said.

The DENR urges the public to continue reporting wildlife sightings and incidents to the DENR and authorities for proper rescue, assessment, and release procedures.

Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001, mandates the conservation and protection of wildlife resources and their habitats, regulates the collection and trade of wildlife, and imposes penalties for illegal acts involving wildlife species.