Philippine deer spotted again in Marinduque after decades-long absence

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MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine deer (Rusa marianna), once thought to have disappeared locally for decades, has been sighted anew in several areas of Marinduque, in what conservation officials described as a "remarkable conservation breakthrough."

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) MIMAROPA – PENRO Marinduque said the sightings were confirmed through sustained monitoring efforts led by the Marinduque Wildlife Sanctuary Protected Area Management Office, in collaboration with local communities.

These efforts included Biodiversity Monitoring System activities, installation of camera traps in Barangay Malibago in Torrijos and Barangay Makulapnit in Sta. Cruz and intensified communication and public awareness campaigns on wildlife protection.

"Records from 2025 documented multiple sightings across the sanctuary, with Barangay Makulapnit emerging as a key habitat, recording at least ten (10) individuals," the agency said in a Facebook post on Friday, March 20.

"Additional signs, such as footprints, were also observed in Boac and nearby areas, indicating a broader distribution of the species within the landscape," it added.

Despite the development, authorities said threats remain, including illegal hunting, poaching and attacks by wild dogs.

One case cited involved a female deer in the Balagbag Range that survived a wild dog attack on Dec. 28, 2025, which led to a rapid response from protected area officials and partner enforcement units.

"In response, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) is strengthening coordination with the Provincial Veterinary Office to address wildlife threats, while PAMO continues to intensify CEPA campaigns across communities to reinforce compliance with Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act," the agency said.

DENR also said a proposed study by the University of the Philippines Los Baños aims to assess the population status of the Philippine deer and support long-term conservation planning.

The agency said the renewed sightings "highlight the success of collaboration among government agencies, local government units and communities."

"The reappearance of the Philippine deer in Marinduque stands as both a conservation milestone and a call to action—demonstrating that while recovery is possible, sustained partnership is essential to ensure its long-term survival," DENR said.