Two endangered Palawan Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis heaneyi) kittens, locally known as “Tamaral” or “Maral,” were rescued and turned over to authorities in Barangay Tagumpay, Roxas, on Monday, February 23, 2026.

The kittens, measuring eight and seven inches, were secured by a local family after their dog alerted them to the presence of an adult Tamaral in their yard. Upon investigating, the family discovered the two kittens nearby and immediately notified the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD).

Wildlife Enforcement Officer Jonathan Padilla confirmed that the kittens were promptly retrieved by PCSD staff in coordination with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) and the local government, led by Mayor Pedy B. Sabando.

Initial assessments showed the kittens were in good health. They were turned over to PCSD DMD North Roxas for proper care and monitoring.

The Palawan Leopard Cat is listed as an endangered species under Republic Act 9147, the “Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001.”

Conservation authorities lauded the family for their swift action, emphasizing that such community support is vital for the protection of Palawan’s unique wildlife.