A rare white monkey was spotted in Sultan Kudarat following the widespread circulation of videos and photographs on social media.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region XII, they are coordinating with the local government unit (LGU) of Senator Ninoy Aquino to immediately protect the said rare white monkey.

The white monkey, believed to be a Philippine Long-tailed Macaque (𝘔𝘢𝘤𝘢𝘤𝘢 𝘧𝘢𝘴𝘤𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴) exhibiting a pigmentation anomaly, has been regularly observed in the area since 2016, according to Barangay Bugso resident Armando.

Armando said the animal frequently roams in the area. Initially presumed to exhibit albinism, field validation conducted by the DENR XII Composite Monitoring Team revealed that the macaque has brown to dark brown eyes, suggesting that it may instead exhibit leucism or another pigmentation condition.

The Department emphasized that scientific verification by wildlife experts is still necessary before a definitive conclusion can be made. Also, the increased public attention could expose the species to disturbance, illegal hunting, poaching, collection, and wildlife trafficking. To ensure its protection, the Department immediately coordinated with the Municipal Government of Senator Ninoy Aquino, concerned stakeholders, and content creators to safeguard both the animal and its habitat.

During the validation, team confirmed that the macaque's habitat remains suitable, with secondary forest vegetation and natural food sources supporting the resident population. The Municipal Government, upon the instruction of the Municipal Mayor, has also temporarily closed the area where the monkey is frequently observed to minimize disturbance and prevent illegal wildlife collection and other threats.

Barangay Bugso is preparing a barangay ordinance to create measures that will protect the white macaque, it's habitat, and the surrounding ecosystem.

As part of its continuing conservation efforts, DENR XII will submit the documentation to the Biodiversity Management Bureau for technical evaluation, sustain habitat monitoring, strengthen coordination with local stakeholders, and intensify information campaigns on wildlife protection to ensure the long-term conservation of the species.

The Department called on LGUs, Indigenous Peoples, local communities, environmental advocates, and the public to remain vigilant and support ongoing wildlife conservation efforts. Through sustained protection, monitoring, and responsible stewardship, DENR XII continues to uphold its commitment to conserve the region's rich biodiversity and ensure that unique wildlife species remain protected for future generations.