The Philippine Online Chronicles

Manila police nabbed three persons in a buy-bust operation for allegedly selling endangered animals which reportedly came from Bicol and Palawan.

The three suspects identified as Luz Estacio, James Feroline, and Jake Vargas are facing charges for violating the Wildlife Resources Act by selling “exotic” animals for P1,000 to P2,000 each.

Reports said that 70 mynah birds, a serpent eagle, and 22 turtles were among the endangered animals seized during the operation.

The animals, which will be presented to Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim before turning over to Manila Zoo, were supposed to be transported to Aranque Market in Manila.

Authorities previously caught smugglers transporting endangered corals and marine animals in Manila. Tagged in the case were Joe Pring and his wife, Olivia Lim Lee, the owners of a Zamboanga-based trading firm which was reportedly involved in the illegal exportation of marine life from Zamboanga City and nearby areas in Southern Mindanao.