The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the Philippines has lately received a request advocating for the capture of wild long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis spp. philippensis) for research. This may pave the way for a resurgence of farms that breed and export macaques for research, using freshly trapped monkeys as their source.

Please add your voice to ensure the Philippines government understands the international disapproval concerning the capturing of its indigenous wild monkeys for research or any other cause.

Primates, being intelligent and social beings, suffer immensely when stripped from their native habitats and separated from their groups. This severe action could lead to injuries and even fatalities. Several official organizations and entities acknowledge the inherent cruelty in capturing wildlife, and the International Primatological Society is among them:

"the capture of nonhuman primates from the wild is stressful for the animals and increases the suffering, risk of injuries, spread of disease and even death during capture, storage and transport"

Action For Primates and The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) are calling on DENR to preserve and protect wild populations of indigenous primates rather than extracting them from their native environments. Macaca fascicularis spp. philippensis is listed under Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). As a participating party of CITES, the Philippines is obligated to ensure the continued survival of the species. Moreover, the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species has recently classified Macaca fascicularis spp. philippensis as 'Near Threatened', with a dwindling population. The reported factors contributing to this decline include hunting and loss of habitat.

The DENR, whilst contemplating whether to sanction a permit for the capture of wild macaques, cites their escalating population and clashes with humans as reasons. However, we urge the DENR to exercise a considerate approach when addressing any potential human-macaque conflicts. Several methods, including reproduction control, relocation, and raising public awareness about effective deterrence measures, can all contribute to resolving such conflicts humanely.

Please sign the petition