North Cotabato Forms Task Force After Philippine Eagle Death and Shooting Incidents
COTABATO, Philippines — The provincial government of Cotabato is strengthening wildlife protection measures following the death of a Philippine Eagle in Arakan and the shooting-related injuries sustained by another eagle in Magpet.
Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza ordered the creation of an inter-agency task force to improve coordination among government agencies, law enforcement authorities, and environmental officials in investigating wildlife-related incidents and enforcing existing conservation laws.
The move follows two incidents involving the country's critically endangered national bird. One eagle was found dead in Barangay Libertad, Arakan, on October 4, while another was rescued in Barangay Manobo, Magpet, on September 27, after being found with air-gun pellet wounds.
Necropsy confirms electrocution
The Philippine Eagle Foundation confirmed that the eagle found in Arakan died from electrocution after coming into contact with a power line. A necropsy also recovered two air-gun pellets from its body, with one associated with a recent wound on the bird's left wing.
Meanwhile, the eagle rescued in Magpet was found with three air-gun pellets lodged in its body. The bird, named Magpet, was transferred for veterinary treatment and rehabilitation following its rescue.
The incidents have raised concerns about the threats facing Philippine Eagles, including direct harm from shooting and risks posed by electrical infrastructure near their habitats.
Agencies coordinate wildlife protection efforts
The provincial task force brings together representatives from the Cotabato Police Provincial Office, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the provincial government, and other concerned offices.
An investigation conducted on October 9 gathered information about the incidents and identified possible measures to strengthen wildlife protection. Recommendations included improving public awareness of wildlife laws, protecting important habitats, and installing safeguards on power lines near areas where eagles live.
Authorities are also considering stronger local measures and closer coordination with other agencies to prevent similar incidents.
Stronger enforcement and public cooperation
The incidents have highlighted the importance of enforcing Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001, which penalizes prohibited acts involving protected wildlife.
The provincial government is urging residents to help protect wildlife and report suspected violations to the appropriate authorities. Cooperation among local communities, law enforcement agencies, and conservation organizations remains important in safeguarding the Philippine Eagle and its natural habitat.
As the investigation and conservation efforts continue, authorities are working to strengthen enforcement and reduce the risks facing the country's national bird.
Source: NewsExpress