Loboc Tarsier Conservation Area: Legal Complaints & Better Sanctuaries

The Loboc Tarsier Conservation Area in Bohol faces formal legal complaints and regulatory action over animal welfare violations.

2019 Formal Complaint

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) filed a complaint with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) alleging violations of the Animal Welfare Act (RA 8485). Specific charges included:

• Cramped, unhygienic enclosures
• Inadequate food and water provision
• Permitting visitor contact causing stress and fur damage

Regulatory Response

DENR ordered facility improvements, but compliance verification remains unclear. Continued operation without transparent remediation raises ongoing concerns.

Why Avoid This Facility

Until independent verification confirms sustained compliance with welfare standards, the precautionary principle dictates avoiding this facility.

Ethical Alternatives

Several reputable sanctuaries in the Philippines prioritize tarsier well-being:

• Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary (Corella)
• Tarsier Conservation Area (Tarsier Hills)
• Tarsier Sanctuary (Bilar)
• Tarsier Sanctuary (Loboc)

These facilities offer naturalistic habitats, strict no-contact policies, and genuine conservation education.

Choose sanctuaries where your visit supports – not exploits – one of the world's most unique primates.