Magpet, Cotabato– The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Cotabato and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Matalam, in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Magpet, have taken swift action to protect a critically endangered Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) recently sighted in Barangay Sallab, Magpet. The collaboration was formalized during a meeting held on October 8, 2024, at the Magpet Municipal Hall.

The majestic eagle was first spotted perched on a Lauan tree on October 2, 2024, by a team from CENRO Matalam’s Wildlife Resources and Conservation Unit and local foot patrollers. A local informant raised concerns about poaching threats, prompting immediate protective measures.

In response, PENRO Cotabato and LGU Magpet are working together to declare a Local Conservation Area (LCA) encompassing four barangays—Sallab, Imamaling, Don Panaca, and Bangkal—where the eagle is believed to roam. This proposal has garnered strong support from barangay leaders, who are committed to protecting the bird’s habitat.

According to PENRO fficer Radzak B. Sinarimbo, the communities stand to benefit directly from these conservation efforts and are being encouraged to take an active role in protecting the Philippine Eagle.

A series of information and education campaigns (IEC) will be rolled out by DENR and LGU Magpet in the coming weeks to raise awareness about the eagle’s critical status and the importance of habitat conservation. As part of this effort, signages have already been installed in key barangays, warning the public of the penalties for illegal activities that threaten wildlife and their habitats.