DENR National Capital Region, through its West Field Office (WFO), retrieved a monitor lizard (Varanus sp.) being kept as a pet in Mandaluyong City on Tuesday, 11 February 2020.

The animal was taken to the Wildlife Rescue Center at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City for rehabilitation and possible release back in the wild in the future.

Republic Act No. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of collecting of 2001, prohibits the "hunting or possession" of wildlife and its derivatives. Those found guilty in the court of law may suffer imprisonment, fined, or both, depending on the conservation status of the wild animal in their possession.