The environment bureau reported that customs officials handed over 375 live black anants to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
According to DENR, the ants arrived in two parcels that originated from Wroclaw in Poland and were sent separately in December.
However, authorities began to inspect the parcels and discovered hundreds of live Ants in their contents.
According to the DENR, the parcels were not equipped with the required wildlife import permit and any supporting documents from the place of origin.
According to the Environment Bureau, ants are gaining popularity among exotic pet owners.
The DENR’s Wildlife Traffic Monitoring Unit also reportedly seized smuggled tarantulas and spiderlings at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport earlier this year.
The Bureau reminded the public that permits must be obtained for wildlife imports and exports, since the Philippines is a signatory of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.
The DENR cautioned the public to avoid illegal wildlife trade as these exotic species could carry diseases or cause harm.
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