More than a decade after Super Typhoon Yolanda devastated forests across Eastern Visayas, government agencies and conservation groups are stepping up efforts to protect the critically endangered Philippine Eagle and restore its natural habitat.
Once home to thriving eagle populations, the forests of Samar and Leyte suffered extensive damage in 2013, leading to habitat loss and fewer sightings of the country’s national bird. In response, a stronger, more coordinated conservation push is now underway to help the species recover.
Stronger Push Through Multi-Agency Partnership
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region VIII, Philippine Eagle Foundation, and the Philippine National Police have formalized a partnership aimed at strengthening protection and enforcement efforts.
The agreement was signed on May 7 during a Protected Area Management Board meeting at Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park. It outlines joint actions to intensify environmental law enforcement, expand public awareness campaigns, and support community-based conservation initiatives.
Officials said the collaboration will improve coordination on the ground, particularly in addressing threats such as illegal hunting and forest degradation.
Restoring Forests, Rebuilding Populations
Efforts to rehabilitate forest ecosystems have been gradually expanding since Yolanda, focusing on restoring suitable nesting and hunting grounds for the Philippine Eagle.
As part of the repopulation campaign, the Philippine Eagle Foundation has released six eagles into the forests of Burauen between 2024 and 2025. The initiative marks a key step in reestablishing the species within Leyte’s remaining forest corridors.
Conservation groups say these releases, coupled with sustained habitat restoration, are critical to rebuilding a viable eagle population in Eastern Visayas.
Communities Play a Key Role
Officials emphasized that long-term conservation depends not only on enforcement but also on community involvement. DENR Regional Executive Director Arturo Salazar noted that protecting the Philippine Eagle also means preserving forest ecosystems that support local livelihoods.
Under the agreement, DENR will lead forest and biodiversity management, while the Philippine Eagle Foundation will provide technical expertise in wildlife monitoring and rehabilitation. The Philippine National Police will support enforcement operations and respond to environmental violations.
The partnership also highlights the role of local governments and upland communities, whose participation is seen as essential in sustaining forest protection efforts and securing the future of the Philippine Eagle in Eastern Visayas.
