Illegal Gecko Tradeby Bam Azores | 14-07-2011 22:24 |
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 The Secretary of the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources (Hon. Ramon Paje) warned the public to refrain from joining the bandwagon on illegal collection and trade of geckos, saying there is no scientific basis that geckos have medicinal properties. Paje likewise stressed that geckos, known locally as ?tuko? are protected by law and that their collection from the wild as well as their trade are strictly regulated and punishable by imprisonment and P300,000 fine. The DENR secretary issued the statement in light of reports in the Philippines and other Asian countries that geckos are being harvested and sold for their medicinal properties, particularly as aphrodisiac and as a cure for cancer, AIDS, asthma, tuberculosis and impotence for which the Secretary says there is no scientific evidence. Secretary Paje also underscored the necessity of ?maintaining a healthy population? of geckos because they play an important role in maintaining our fragile ecosystems. |
