Three rescued Philippine eagles turned over to Region 8 in a conservation effort held in Burauen, Leyte, ensuring their protection and rehabilitation.
According to the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), the eagles were rescued in Mindanao after being targeted by poachers and hunters.
The three eagles were identified as Lyra Sinabadan, a female eagle aged eight; Lakupe, a 20-year-old male set to replace Uswag and introduced to Philippine Eagle Carlito; and Kalatungan, a three-year-old male paired with Lyra Sinabadan.
In 2024, two Philippine eagles, Carlito and Uswag, were released in Eastern Visayas, but Uswag was later found dead at sea, with drowning suspected as the cause.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the PEF believe that changing weather patterns contributed to Uswag’s death.
The turnover ceremony was held at the Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park Eco-Lodge in Burauen, Leyte, with representatives from nearby local government units, including MacArthur, La Paz, and other government agencies.
Dr. Jayson C. Ibañez, Director for Operations of the Philippine Eagle Foundation, assured the public that preventive measures are in place to avoid another incident like Uswag’s death.
One of the steps they will take is cohort bonding and site bonding to help the eagles adapt and ensure food availability in their release area.
Dr. Ibañez also urged the public not to shoot or capture Philippine eagles, emphasizing that they are endangered and that harming them is against the law.
The three eagles will remain under the care of the PEF and DENR Region 8 for further training before their release into their new habitat.