The Crown jewel of Philippine biodiversity is well on its way to Singapore. Captive-bred Philippine eagles, Geothermica (male 15 y/o) and Sambisig (female, 17 y/o), will fly from the Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City to their new home at the Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS)-Jurong Bird Park as ambassadors of Philippine biodiversity. Through a Wildlife Loan Agreement (WLA) between the DENR and WRS, the eagles are expected to generate global awareness on the urgent need for their conservation and to stimulate international support for in-situ conservation in the country.
Loaning of these iconic birds comes at a most opportune time with experts placing their population at less than 400 pairs in the wild brought about by habitat loss and hunting. With the threat of avian flu looming in the horizon, the opportunity to send Geothermica and Sambisig overseas for conservation breeding and public education is also a biosecurity measure to ensure the presence of a fall back population in case of extreme natural calamities. As the saying goes, “Do not put all your eggs in one basket.”
The WLA between the DENR and WRS shall also promote and coordinate staff exchanges for training and capability building in the areas of animal husbandry, veterinary management, animal welfare, designs, zoo education, and marketing. The WRS has also committed to support the DENR’s programs on Philippine eagle conservation including reintroduction of any offspring from the loaned eagles.
