Some 10 critically endangered Philippine hanging parrots (𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘴 𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴) were about to be sold to collectors, but were rescued from an alleged illegal wildlife trade operation in Barangay Pangao-an, Magpet, Cotabato.

On 9 July 2026, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Matalam released these 10 Kulasisi back into the wild, showing that the government continues to protect endangered species that are endemic to the Philippines.

CENRO Matalam hailed the concerned citizen who reported the alleged illegal sale of these wild animals, citing that the vigilance of the community have a great impact in the protection of endangered species.

After undergoing immediate health assessment by wildlife personnel and being found fit for release, the endemic parrots were safely reintroduced into the wild to maximize their chances of survival and contribute to the recovery of their dwindling population.

CENRO Midsayap found that the rescued kulasisi were allegedly being offered for sale at P1,000 each, highlighting the continuing threat posed by illegal wildlife trafficking despite intensified conservation and enforcement efforts.

The Philippine hanging parrot, found only in the Philippines, is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09 due to severe habitat loss and persistent poaching for the illegal pet trade.