KORONADAL CITY: A rare white monkey, believed to be a Philippine long-tailed macaque, has been spotted in a forested area in Barangay Bugso, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat since July 1, prompting authorities to tighten measures to protect the animal and its habitat.
The monkey was first captured on video by indigenous tour guide John Danda, who immediately reported the sighting to the municipal tourism office.
Residents said they had heard stories about a white monkey living in the area, with some claiming they often saw it as early as 6am.
A recent video, however, is believed to be the first documentation of the animal.In a social media post by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Region 12 (DENR-12), it said that initial assessment found that the animal has brown eyes instead of the pink or red eyes commonly seen in albino animals.
This suggests it may have leucism or another pigmentation condition that causes white fur while leaving the eyes their normal colour, it said.
Wildlife experts still need to conduct scientific examinations before its condition can be confirmed, DENR-Soccsksargen said.
In addition, the department warned that the growing attention surrounding the monkey could lead to disturbance, poaching, illegal hunting, wildlife collection, and trafficking. – Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
