No, owning a hedgehog as a pet in the Philippines is illegal under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order No. 2019-09, which enforces the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (Republic Act No. 9147). The species is classified as a prohibited wildlife species, and unauthorized possession or breeding incurs penalties including fines up to ₱1 million or imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Owning a Hedgehog in Philippines
- Prohibited Species Status: Hedgehogs are listed under DENR AO 2019-09 as prohibited wildlife, barring private ownership without special permits, which are rarely granted for non-native species.
- Strict Import Bans: The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) under the Department of Agriculture (DA) enforces import restrictions, requiring health certificates and CITES permits for any hedgehog entry, effectively halting legal importation.
- Enforcement and Penalties: Violations are prosecuted under RA 9147, with local government units (LGUs) collaborating with DENR to conduct raids and confiscate unauthorized pets, imposing administrative and criminal liabilities on owners.