Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Roy A. Cimatu has hailed the contribution of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the efforts to conserve the critically endangered Philippine eagle.
"The Philippine eagle's presence in the forests is intrinsically connected to the web of life, in the lives of our brethren katutubos and resonates in their everyday lives, deeming the eagle sacred and providing utmost protection from harm," Cimatu said last June 4 during the launch of this year's celebration of Philippine Eagle Week (PEW).
"It is through these indigenous practices, we are able to learn from their culture and beliefs and understand how wildlife and humans can co-exist harmoniously...what better way to learn of these stories through local stewards who serve as our eyes and ears in the forests," he said.
Known as the largest of the extant eagles in the world in terms of length and wing surface, the Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) is currently classified as a "critically endangered" raptor in the Updated National List of Philippine Threatened Fauna or DENR Administrative Order 2019-09), and by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature or IUCN.
The wild population of the species throughout the archipelago remains precarious at approximately 400 pairs. Hunting and loss of forest habitats remain the primary threats to birds’ survival.
The PEW is observed from June 4 to 10 of every calendar year by virtue of Proclamation No. 79. The declaration aims to promote awareness on the importance of the Philippine eagle as a biological indicator of our forest ecosystems, a national symbol and a truly unique heritage.
The year 2021 marks the 23rd iteration of PEW. This year's theme, "The Philippine Eagle and Indigenous Peoples: Protecting our forests, protecting our future," highlights the vital role of IPs in protecting the Philippines eagles’ forest homes.
"There is no opportune time to learn how to take care of our fragile environment, especially during this pandemic than now," stressed Cimatu.
The event was organized by the DENR-Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB) in partnership with the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), Haribon Foundation, and the University of the Philippines-Diliman, Institute of Biology.
During the event, various IP communities—together with the DENR regional and field offices, PEF, and local government units—shared their inspirational stories of Philippine eagle rescues, rehabilitation, and releases.
Hailed as "Local Biodiversity Champions," five IP communities, which include the Manuvu Tinonanon of Arakan, North Cotabato; Bukidnon (Higaonon) of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon; Samahan ng Bantay Kalikasan sa Lupaing Ninuno (SBKALN); Indigenous Mandaya of Pantuyan, Caraga; Obu Manuvu of Davao City; and the Bagobo Tagabawa in Mt. Apo, Davao City, presented their own stories of hope, success, and goodwill.
A new partner in conservation, the Philippine Fauna Art Society (PhilFAS) through its founder Ms. Bing Famoso, also presented a virtual art exhibit dubbed "Haring Agila: An Online Art Exhibition."
A livestream of the exhibit can be seen on the group's Facebook page until the end of PEW on June 10.