CAVITE, Philippines — Residents and motorists along the Ternate–Nasugbu Highway in the town of Ternate have reported sightings of emaciated monkeys scavenging along the roadside, often approaching vehicles in search of food. The sight of these wild animals, visibly undernourished, has raised concerns about both animal welfare and public safety. Local authorities have issued reminders for the public to exercise caution and to avoid feeding wild animals, emphasizing adherence to proper guidelines to protect both humans and wildlife.

The recurring presence of these monkeys near busy roads highlights a deeper, often overlooked issue: the intersection of human expansion and wildlife survival. As forests shrink and natural habitats are disrupted, animals are increasingly forced into human spaces to find sustenance. While giving food may seem like an act of kindness, it can unintentionally encourage dangerous behaviors, habituate animals to human presence, and increase the risk of accidents.

This situation calls for a more thoughtful reflection on our relationship with nature. Should our instinctive compassion for hungry animals be tempered by long-term considerations for safety and ecological balance? Perhaps the real challenge is not just feeding animals, but creating environments where wildlife can thrive without constantly relying on humans. As we witness these monkeys struggling along a busy highway, the question arises: how far are we willing to go to protect wildlife while ensuring our own safety, and what responsibilities do we have toward the ecosystems we are altering? (Larawan: Anne Fortu)