Authorities confiscated at least eight illegally harvested bonsai trees and arrested alleged traders in an entrapment operation in Barangay Bawing, General Santos City on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-SOCCSKSARGEN (DENR-12), the bonsai trees are of the molave species, which is classified as endangered species.

The operation was launched by DENR-12 together with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

Authorities said the suspects have been monitored for several weeks after attempting to sell the bonsai trees through social media platforms.

“Some of the trees, believed to be decades old, were uprooted from their natural habitats in violation of Republic Act 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. This law prohibits the illegal collection, transport, and trade of wildlife species, including plants, and imposes penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for violations,” DENR-12 said.

The seized bonsai trees were turned over to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)-Gensan for rehabilitation.

On the other hand, the suspects are facing charges for violation of the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147).

“The protection of endangered species, such as the Molave, is vital to sustaining the region's ecological balance, collaborative efforts between government agencies, law enforcement, and the community are essential to preserving this wildlife for future generations to see. The DENR 12 strongly urges the public to remain vigilant and report any activities that cause harm to wildlife and biodiversity in the region,” DENR-12 added.