Exotic pet trade regulations tightened in the Philippines

DENR issues new rules on the sale and keeping of exotic animals

Farms and pet traders must register and get a permit

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has issued new regulations on the sale and keeping of exotic animals in the Philippines. The new rules aim to tighten controls on the exotic pet trade and prevent the illegal entry and keeping of exotic animals in the country. Under the new rules, farms and pet traders must register with the DENR and obtain a permit to sell or keep exotic animals. The permit will only be issued if the applicant meets certain requirements, such as having adequate facilities and staff to care for the animals and ensuring that the animals are not a threat to human health or safety. The new rules also ban the sale and keeping of certain types of exotic animals, such as big cats, primates, and venomous snakes. These animals are considered to be dangerous and pose a risk to human safety. The DENR said that the new rules are necessary to protect the public and the environment. The illegal exotic pet trade can lead to the spread of diseases, the introduction of invasive species, and the decline of native wildlife populations. The DENR urged the public to report any illegal activities related to the exotic pet trade. The public can report violations to the DENR's hotline at (02) 929-6626 or through its website at www.denr.gov.ph.