No. Owning a kangaroo in the Philippines is prohibited under the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (Republic Act No. 9147), enforced by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Exotic pet ownership requires special permits, which kangaroos do not qualify for due to their protected status under CITES Appendix II. Violations may result in fines up to ₱1 million or imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Philippines
- DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09 classifies kangaroos as prohibited wildlife, barring private ownership without a Certificate of Wildlife Registration (CWR) under RA 9147.
- CITES Compliance (2026 Updates): The Philippines’ 2026 CITES review mandates stricter scrutiny for exotic pet imports; kangaroos require import permits from both DENR and the Bureau of Customs.
- Local Government Units (LGUs) may impose additional restrictions via ordinances, such as zoning laws prohibiting exotic animal enclosures in residential areas.
Exemptions exist solely for accredited zoos, research institutions, or conservation programs with DENR-approved Wildlife Farming Permits. Private individuals face legal risks, including confiscation and penalties, for unauthorized possession. The DENR’s Wildlife Traffic Monitoring System (2024) further tightens cross-border monitoring to curb illegal trade.