Manila: A monkey in northern Philippines’ Baguio City went on a biting spree Thursday evening injuring five people and mauling dogs before local folk were able to capture it.
The Journal Online reported the monkey ran amok after local people in Quezon Hill Extension, Baguio City tried to subdue and capture it after it pounced on a number of dogs being kept as pets.
Three of the five people victimised by the rogue macaque were identified as Danilo Cagais, 37; Rogelio Bautista, 63 and Richard Dako, 22 — all residents of San Carlos Heights, Baguio City.
The victims had tried to fight the creature off, but it was determined to defend itself typical to macaques that perceive threats.
It was unknown what kind of primate the creature was but Philippine long tailed macaques (scientific name: Macaca Philippinensis) are known to abound in most parts of the country including highland areas like Baguio City.
About as big as a large house cat, the Philippine monkey is known for its irritability and feral ways although some people were able to domesticate these creatures and keep them as pets.
The macaque was turned over to the local protected animals and wildlife bureau after local people were able to capture it.
Macaques can also transmit rabies to humans through biting.
