Tigbao: An investigation is underway after a video circulated on social media purportedly showing a cockfighting incident within a protected area in Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur. Arturo Fadriquela, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Zamboanga Peninsula executive director, said Friday they are deeply concerned regarding the alleged incident within Mount Timolan Protected Landscape (MTPL), which is a declared protected area in Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur.

According to Philippines News Agency, Fadriquela stated they have temporarily closed the MTPL to visitors “so as not to disrupt the ongoing inquiry.” He assured that appropriate charges will be filed against the individuals responsible if the investigation warrants such action.

Meanwhile, Protected Area Superintendent (PaSu) Mario Ronulo has been relieved of his functions pending the investigation being conducted on the matter. The MTPL is a protected area covering Mount Timolan and its surrounding forested landscape in Zamboanga Peninsula, established through Proclamation Order 354 issued on Aug. 14, 2000, by then-President Joseph Estrada.

The MTPL encompasses an area of 1,994.79 hectares and a buffer zone of 695.39 hectares within the municipalities of San Miguel, Guipos, and Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur. It is recognized as an important bird area, being home to various species such as the Philippine eagle, Philippine cockatoo, Philippine hawk eagle, brahminy kite, hornbill, wild ducks, pigeons, fruit doves, and jungle owls. It also serves as a habitat for the Philippine tarsier, Philippine warty pig, Asian palm civet cat, Philippine pygmy squirrel, Philippine tree squirrel, and reptiles like the Philippine sailfin lizard, water monitor, snakes, and gecko.

Fadriquela encouraged the public to report any suspicious or illegal activities observed within protected areas to the nearest DENR office.