MANILA, Philippines — A suspected illegal wildlife trader was arrested in Taytay, Palawan on Saturday.
Albert Dayuha was reportedly caught in possession of a pangolin in Barangay Poblacion, according to Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission executive director Gilbert Cruz.
The pangolin was turned over to the local government for safekeeping.
Charges of violation of Republic Act 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Law, will be filed against Dayuha, authorities said.
Citing sources, Cruz said Dayuha has been engaging in the illegal trade of wildlife in Taytay.
The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development classified the pangolin as a critically endangered species.
The public has been urged to report to authorities any person engaged in the illegal sale of wildlife.