Port of Surigao joint operations yield over P3.3M in illegal wildlife, unlicensed firearms
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — A synchronized security operation at the Port of Surigao disrupted a major illegal wildlife trafficking attempt. It recovered an unlicensed firearm on September 18, seizing over P3.3 million worth of contraband and apprehending two logistics personnel.
The targeted intercept occurred at Port Gate 5, coordinated by a multi-agency task force comprising the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Port Police, the Regional Maritime Unit 13 (Regional Special Operations Team), the Surigao del Norte Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), and officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Barangay representatives were also present to witness the search and inventory.
Authorities intercepted a Hyundai H100 utility vehicle operated by JPV Pet Transport and Logistics. Upon inspection, officers discovered a vast, illegal cargo of exotic and protected wildlife alongside a concealed STK100 9mm pistol and live ammunition.
Officers identified the arrested suspects as Jhon Phillip Oraa Valdez, 34, and Sonny Casas Colita, 41, both representing the logistics company.
Inventory of confiscated contraband includes white cockatoos and various rare parrot species, high-value aldaba giant tortoises, leopard tortoises, red-footed tortoises, star tortoises, bearcats, and raccoons, with an estimated value of P2,066, 000.
Also included in the inventory is one STK100 9mm semi-automatic pistol loaded with live ammunition and a Hyundai H100 transport vehicle used in facilitating the smuggling route, with an estimated value of P1,235,000.
The total estimated monetary value of the seized animals, vehicle, and firearm stands at P3,301,000.
Following standard protocol, officers informed Valdez and Colita of their constitutional rights under the Miranda Doctrine before transporting them to the Regional Maritime Unit 13 headquarters for official booking and documentation.
Inquest proceedings are currently being prepared against both individuals for violations of Republic Act No. 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, and separate charges for illegal possession of firearms under Republic Act No. 10591.
According to Surigao Port Manager Froilan U. Caturla, all recovered live animals were surrendered to the DENR for urgent veterinary assessment, rehabilitation, and long-term disposition in accordance with national environmental protection laws.
“PPA security officials underscored that inter-agency vigilance at critical sea gateways remains essential in combating organized wildlife crime across the region,” Caturla said. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from (PPA-PMO Surigao)
