Python Found in Calbayog Home

Posted on Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:34 pm

CALBAYOG CITY — A reticulated python was rescued from a residential home in Purok 2, Barangay Obrero, on January 26, highlighting ongoing interactions between urban communities and native wildlife and the need to protect both.

Around 6:00 a.m., personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Calbayog responded to reports of a snake inside a house and found the reptile hiding under a kitchen sink. Firefighters were able to safely capture the snake, which measured about 3.3 meters long and weighed an estimated 7 to 10 kilograms.

After the rescue, the python was turned over to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) for proper care and eventual release into a suitable habitat.

Local authorities and wildlife advocates note that this is not an isolated incident in the area. In past years, there have been reports of reticulated pythons and other large snakes turning up in homes and communities across Samar and nearby regions, reflecting the fact that these reptiles still inhabit nearby forests and watersheds. Such encounters have occurred elsewhere in the Philippines as well, with pythons being found in residential areas and later turned over to authorities.

Reticulated pythons can be found in the wild in the Philippines and are crucial to the health of local ecosystems since they help control the number of rodents and contribute to ecological balance. 

Unfortunately, as their natural habitats are destroyed and cities continue to expand, human-wildlife interactions become more common.  Therefore, it is essential to report them properly and conduct rescue operations safely.

Environment officials are urging the public that if they come across a snake or any other wild animal, the first thing they should do is inform the authorities and not attempt  to catch the animals themselves as this can harm both people and animals.

(Photo courtesy: BFP Calbayog)