Ten critically endangered Philippine hanging parrots, locally known as kulasisi, were released back into the wild after being rescued from an alleged illegal wildlife trade operation in Magpet, Cotabato, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Soccsksargen said.

The birds were freed on July 9 in Barangay Pangao-an by the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Matalam, a day after they were confiscated following a tip from a concerned citizen about their alleged sale.

Wildlife personnel assessed the parrots and found them fit for release, allowing authorities to immediately return them to their natural habitat to boost their chances of survival and help restore their dwindling population.

Authorities said the kulasisi were allegedly being sold for ₱1,000 each, highlighting the persistent threat of illegal wildlife trafficking.

The Philippine hanging parrot (Loriculus philippensis), endemic to the country, is classified as critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching for the pet trade.

The DENR reminded the public that the collection, possession, transport and sale of wildlife without permits are prohibited under Republic Act No. 9147, which carries penalties of up to four years in prison and fines of up to ₱300,000.

The agency also urged the public to report wildlife crimes and avoid purchasing wild animals, stressing the shared responsibility to protect endemic species.