MAGPET, Cotabato — A Philippine Eagle was spotted standing prominently amid hazy conditions at the Mahuson Range in Magpet, Cotabato, during a wildlife monitoring activity conducted from September 22 to 24, highlighting the continuing presence of the country’s iconic bird of prey in its natural environment.
The sighting came as wildlife team monitors and documented other bird species in the area, including the Brahminy Kite, Pinsker’s Hawk-Eagle, Serpent Eagle, Colasisi, White-Collared Kingfisher, Flower-picker, Coleto, Bee-eater, Philippine Bulbul, Copper Smith Barbet, and Woodpecker. The variety of species recorded points out the necessity of protecting habitats that support diverse wildlife.
For the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), regular wildlife monitoring is an important part of conservation efforts because the information gathered helps guide strategies that benefit wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on. It also provides opportunities to strengthen community awareness and encourage shared responsibility for protecting the country’s natural heritage.
The Philippine Eagle sighting also serves as a reminder that wildlife protection goes beyond individual species. Sustaining forest habitats and encouraging communities to participate in conservation are essential to maintaining biodiversity. Through continued monitoring and public awareness, government agencies and local communities can work together to protect wildlife and the ecosystems that sustain them.
(With reports from IVY MCinconiegue, Information Officer Designate, and photos by CENRO Matalam wildlife monitoring team.) I RSCIGK
