Conservationists seek deeper probe of PH eagle shooting
DAVAO CITY—Conservationists have asked authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and wounding of an adult Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) in the hinterlands of Malaybalay City in Bukidnon province early this month.
This developed as biologists of the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) told the Inquirer on Thursday that the raptor, named “Sawaga-Dalwangan,” is “now alert and responsive, and eating on its own” following over a week of being in intensive care in a facility here.
Dr. Jayson Ibañez, PEF director for operations, said agencies like the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation can be helpful in establishing the facts of the attack in cooperation with leaders of indigenous peoples and the barangay council in the area.
The investigation, according to PEF, should be a major part of an intensified campaign to protect the critically endangered national bird.
Sawaga-Dalwangan was surrendered by residents to the DENR on July 3, after it was found near the Sawaga River at Barangay Dalwangan in Malaybalay.
Sawaga River is within the Mt. Kitanglad Natural Park, one of the eagle’s major habitats. The area is considered the second oldest known breeding territory in Mindanao since 1986 and the longest-monitored nesting territory anywhere in the world for the critically endangered national bird which is estimated to number only less than 400 pairs in the wild.
The raptor was severely dehydrated and very weak when turned over to the PEF team.
Upon examination, the eagle had an airgun pellet on its right wing, which was later removed. Another metal pellet remains deep inside its left thigh.
PEF said the eagle’s wounds suggested that the injuries were not recent. When turned over, the eagle’s feathers were soiled, its plumage was damaged and had advanced maggot infestation in the wounded wing.
When alerted by residents, government responders and conservationists quickly organized a rescue. Personnel from DENR, Malaybalay Provincial Zoo, indigenous community members, local volunteers and the PEF worked together to bring the eagle here for further care.
Senate commendation
Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, a native of Bukidnon, filed Senate Resolution No. 519, seeking to commend indigenous farmer Marvin Linoy, 21, for rescuing the eagle.
The resolution aims to recognize Linoy’s “exemplary courage and heroism” and his contribution to the protection and conservation of one of the most treasured and critically endangered wildlife species.
According to Zubiri, Linoy was gathering fruits in the forest when he discovered a group of monkeys attacking the eagle, which was covered in soil.
The rescuer, who drove the monkeys away by mimicking the barking of a dog, calmed the injured eagle by covering its eyes with fern leaves and wrapping its body with his jacket.
The measure also recognized indigenous farmers Junissa Docenos and Sanny Docenos, members of the Inhandig Tribal Multi-Purpose Cooperative, for assisting Linoy during the rescue.
“Marvin Linoy’s bravery, presence of mind and compassion played a vital role in saving the Philippine eagle from further harm and his act exemplifies the highest ideals of environmental stewardship and responsible citizenship,” Zubiri said in his resolution. —WITH A REPORT FROM MARC ANDRE ESGUERRA
