Philippine Eagle Foundation calls for urgent action after eagle electrocutions

The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) is calling for urgent action to retrofit dangerous power poles near eagle habitats following the deaths of two young female Philippine Eagles due to suspected and confirmed electrocution. The incidents occurred within three days in Mindanao, with one eagle found dead in Misamis Oriental on October 1 and another in North Cotabato on October 4. PEF operations director Jayson Ibañez urged government agencies, electric cooperatives, and engineers to collaborate to identify and secure high-risk electrical infrastructure before more birds are lost.

In a separate conservation effort, community-based eco-tourism initiatives are being launched in Bukidnon to protect the critically endangered species. In Manolo Fortich, the Kilag-odan Apo Datu Nanikunan Tribal Association Incorporated, local government, and PEF inaugurated a new viewing deck and bunkhouse to support conservation through tourism. This program is supported by funds from local festivals and aims to preserve habitats, drawing inspiration from the survival story of Kalabugao, an eagle rehabilitated and released into the Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park.