Endangered Tarsier Spotted in Tacloban City

Posted on Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:21 pm

TACLOBAN CITY — The recent sighting of a tarsier in Barangay 103, A Paglaum, Tacloban City, highlights the presence of endangered wildlife in urban areas and emphasizes the importance of local communities in protecting biodiversity.

A post by a netizen named Lutz Raagas revealed that the tarsier was discovered in their vicinity last Wednesday, January 27. Recognizing the vulnerability of the animal, residents promptly returned it to a forested area, saving it from harm and stress.

Tarsiers are highly sensitive to noise and human contact, making them a protected species in the Philippines. While typically associated with forests, reports of tarsier sightings suggest they may also inhabit areas near human settlements. In Leyte alone, there have been multiple tarsier sightings, including one in the town of Tunga.

Tacloban City has experienced similar events before, with a tarsier spotted in Barangay 107, Sta. Elena in July 2022. These sightings indicate that there are pockets of suitable habitat for these creatures within and around the city.

Environmental advocates argue that these incidents underscore the need for urban development to coexist harmoniously with the environment. The responsible actions of the residents of Barangay 103 demonstrate how local communities can play a crucial role in protecting wildlife and preserving biodiversity.

While urbanization is inevitable, collaboration between residents and environmental officials will be essential in ensuring the survival of species like the tarsier. This serves as a testament to the importance of grassroots conservation efforts in the broader environmental movement.

(Photos: Lutz Raagas)