A recent video capturing a vlogger’s interaction with two tarsiers in Polomolok, South Cotabato has stirred controversy online, sparking outrage among social media users and prompting an investigation by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The footage, which quickly went viral on social media, depicts the vlogger gleefully capturing two tarsiers hanging from branches. In the video, the vlogger named ‘Farm Boy’ can be heard coaxing one of the creatures to smile, accompanied by laughter and seemingly playful handling.
The incident drew immediate concerns from wildlife advocates and the public, with many expressing dismay over the vlogger’s actions. A user called out the video in a tweet that garnered significant attention. It lamented the disturbance caused to the tarsiers in their natural habitat and questioned the vlogger’s knowledge of proper animal handling.
Waaah! Yung tarsier! Nanahimik yung primate sa kanyang habitat, inistorbo ni kuya! Hindi ba niya alam ang proper way in handling and dealing with these animals?! Naawa ako huhuhu! Naka strike 2 na ang Bohol @DENROfficial @peta
©️ SAF Special Asay Force (fb) pic.twitter.com/4vW4ZGg7Yv
— @pauloinmanila and 99 others (@pauloMDtweets) April 10, 2024
In response to the public outcry, the DENR released a statement announcing their investigation into the matter. The agency’s monitoring and enforcement team received reports regarding the video and confirmed that the tarsiers featured were later released into the wild. However, the DENR is considering further actions regarding the incident.
The Philippine Tarsier Foundation, condemning the vlogger’s behavior, urged the public not to support accounts that promote animal harassment for clout. They emphasized the importance of reporting such incidents to prevent incentivizing irresponsible actions towards wildlife.
The Philippine Tarsier, an endemic and endangered species, is protected under environmental laws due to its vulnerable status. Studies have shown that tarsiers can experience stress and self-harm in captivity or when exposed to a hostile environment.
This incident adds to recent concerns about wildlife protection in the Philippines. The DENR’s swift response reflects growing awareness and advocacy for the preservation of endangered species and their habitats.
As the investigation into the Tarsier incident unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect and respect our natural heritage, particularly endangered species like the Philippine Tarsier.
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