BUENAVISTA, Marinduque — Local authorities successfully captured an exceptionally large python over the weekend after it was discovered trapped in a pit in Barangay Lipata, Buenavista.

The incident occurred on Saturday, April 25, 2026, causing a stir among local residents. A passerby initially spotted the gigantic reptile coiled at the bottom of an earthy pit and immediately alerted barangay officials. The snake was visibly sluggish and weighed down, featuring an enormous bulge in its midsection.

The Culprit Behind Missing Livestock

Prior to the discovery, local farmers had been reporting the disappearance of their livestock. Upon capturing the snake, it was determined that the python had recently devoured a local farmer's 25-kilogram (55-pound) pig, resulting in its massive, bloated state which likely caused it to fall into and become trapped inside the pit.

A Heavy Lift for the Rescue Team

The Marinduque Animal and Wildlife Rescue Emergency Response Team (MAWRET) was dispatched to handle the situation. Due to the python's massive size—measuring over 9 feet in length—and its engorged state, responders proceeded with extreme caution. Utilizing proper snake-handling techniques, it took four individuals to safely hoist the heavy reptile out of the deep pit and temporarily place it in a secure transport cage.

While encounters with reticulated pythons—which are native to the Philippines—do happen in Marinduque's more rural and forested areas, finding a specimen large enough to consume livestock of that size is a rare and startling event for the community. However, residents remain cautious due to local reports suggesting other potentially large snakes may still be in the area.

Safe Relocation

Following the capture, Provincial Veterinarian Dr. JM Victoria confirmed that the animal would undergo a thorough assessment. Once cleared, the local Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will determine the appropriate time and location to safely release the python back into its natural forest habitat, far away from human settlements and agricultural zones.

Local officials remind residents to secure their livestock, especially those living near forested borders, and to immediately contact local authorities for safe wildlife removal rather than attempting to handle large animals themselves.