New award recognises achievements in fighting wildlife crime in Philippines
Celebrating commitment and outstanding achievement in combating wildlife crime is the goal of a brand new commendation award launched in the Philippines today.
For more details on the award and the nomination process
Wildlife Sentinel Award (WiSe)
The Wildlife Sentinel Award (WiSe) Philippines was initiated to honour and recognize the exemplary contributions of law enforcement officers and encourage continued progress and commitment along the five themes of the award: Innovation, Collaboration, Impact, Integrity, and Leadership.
This is the first award of its kind in the Philippines, complementing existing internal awards within departments and the DENR-led Wildlife Law Enforcement Awarding Ceremony.
The Philippines is one of the world's most biodiverse countries with so many endemic species spread across thousands of islands. Fighting to keep them safe from poachers and traffickers is challenging to say the least and we wanted to recognize those who have gone above and beyond."
Serene Chng, TRAFFIC Senior Programme Officer
Nominations for WiSe are now being accepted until 30 June 2024 (for achievements accomplished in January to December 2023)
Applications are open to individuals, units and groups in investigation and law enforcement agencies and prosecution services dealing with wildlife crime in the Philippines. More details are available in the WiSe brochure.
Nominees will be short-listed and assessed by a selection panel before the winners are announced in an award ceremony.
TRAFFIC Southeast Asia Director, Kanitha Krishnasamy, introduced the award at the Opening Programme of the 4th National Wildlife Law Enforcement Summit, attended by wildlife law enforcement personnel from across the Philippines. The three-yearly review of the country’s Wildlife Law Enforcement Action Plan (WildLEAP) is also taking place during the Summit.
“We are delighted to announce this Award at this esteemed congregation of Philippine wildlife law enforcers. Many have years, even decades of experience, in overcoming complicated and sometimes dangerous situations, in the name of protecting our shared natural heritage. We want to spotlight their remarkable contributions, and hopefully also inspire others to join the fight against wildlife crime,” said Krishnasamy.
WiSe awardees will receive a bespoke medal and certificate eligible for promotional points.
submit a nomination: |
About TRAFFIC
TRAFFIC is a leading non-governmental organisation working to ensure that trade in wild species is legal and sustainable, for the benefit of the planet and people.
About Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL):
Funded by the United States Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. The opinions, finds and conclusions stated herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State.
The mission of INL is to minimise the impact of international crime, such as money laundering and criminal gangs, and illegal drugs on the United States, its citizens, and partner nations by providing practical foreign assistance and fostering global cooperation. Visit the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL)'s website.
