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Let us continue signing the petition to help save @Happy Animals Club ( RESEARCHED BY: DAWN IVANA JULIA C. TOLENTINO )

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URL: https://www.tiktok.com/@_jinkieb/video/7292798766850100485

TITLE: Local Animal Shelter "Happy Animals Club" ordered to close by the City Health Office

AUTHOR: Jinkie Bangcot

DATE PUBLISHED: October 22, 2023

KEY INFO: Jinkie Bangcot a female content creator inviting the citizens of Davao to take action in signing a petition to let the Animal shelter "Happy Animals Club" continue their rescue operations and help save over 300 cats and dogs.

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Let us continue signing the petition to help save @Happy Animals Club — a no-kill shelter dedicated to caring for animals in need. Davao, we are so lucky to have someone who had this  initiative 🤍  Now, it’s our turn to do something. Next target is 50,000 signatures for PAWSsion project’s petition against the unjust closure of Happy Animals Club Shelter.  a huge shoutout to @maria cabral <3 for letting me use her clips 🙏🏻

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@_jinkieb
Let us continue signing the petition to help save @Happy Animals Club — a no-kill shelter dedicated to caring for animals in need. Davao, we are so lucky to have someone who had this initiative 🤍 Now, it’s our turn to do something. Next target is 50,000 signatures for PAWSsion project’s petition against the unjust closure of Happy Animals Club Shelter. a huge shoutout to @maria cabral <3 for letting me use her clips 🙏🏻
♬ Healing Song - Piano Peace

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DENR, NBI seize over 450 smuggled animals in Davao Oriental | Davao Today ( RESEARCHED BY: Dawn Ivana Julia Tolentino)

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URL: https://davaotoday.com/environment/denr-nbi-seize-over-450-smuggled-animals-in-davao-oriental/

TITLE: DENR, NBI seize over 450 smuggled animals in Davao Oriental

AUTHOR: Ken E. Cagula

DATE PUBLISHED: April 9, 2019

KEY INFO: With illegal trading of wildlife still prelevant. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) together with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) conducted a raid in Baranggay Dahican Davao Oriental, wherein 450 species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, including Black Palm Cockatoos, wallabies, and Echidna. These exotic animals were kept to be disposed a week after.

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DAVAO CITY, Philippines - Authorities seized various species of exotic animals reportedly smuggled from Indonesia in an operation conducted on Monday, April 8 in Barangay Dahican, Mati City, Davao Oriental.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) together with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) conducted the raid.

In a report, the authorities confiscated and identified 450 species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, including Black Palm Cockatoos, wallabies, and Echidna.

The report added that the confiscated exotic animals were in the area for safekeeping in a week before their disposal.

Authorities arrested two persons who served as caretakers of said animals during the raid.

Dr. Rogelio Demelletes Jr., senior ecosystems management specialist of DENR said the estimated value of the confiscated animals would range from PHP50 to over PHP100 million.

From Indonesia, smugglers would drop these wildlife species off in Mati City in Davao Oriental or in the area of Sarangani and before transporting and selling it to different areas in the country, according to Demelletes.

The DENR official admitted that illegal trade of wildlife in the country is still prevalent.

"Selling of these animals is being conducted through the internet, using bogus accounts to evade arrest from the authorities," Demelletes said.

The seized animals are now at the custody of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Mati for quarantine and rehabilitation.

"The animals will be checked if they carry any airborne diseases," Demelletes said.

DENR will also ask the Indonesian government if it will be willing to accept back the seized animals.

Charges are now being prepared against the suspects behind the smuggling of the animals.

Under Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, it is unlawful to collect, hunt or possess wildlife species. (davaotoday.com)

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DENR, NBI seize over 450 smuggled animals in Davao Oriental | Davao Today

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Authorities seized various species of exotic animals reportedly smuggled from Indonesia in an operation conducted on Monday, April 8 in Barangay Dahican, Mati City, Davao Oriental.

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Restoring biodiversity Philippine Eagle Center initiates planting of 3M trees (RESEARCHED BY: Dawn Ivana Julia Tolentino)

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URL: https://www.sunstar.com.ph/amp/story/davao/restoring-biodiversityphilippine-eagle-center-initiates-planting-of-3m-trees

TITLE:Restoring biodiversity Philippine Eagle Center initiates planting of 3M trees

AUTHOR: Ian Espinosa

DATE PUBLISHED: October 28, 2023

KEY INFO: The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) initiated the Forest-RegAIN project at their Malagos conservation center in Davao City on October 27, 2023.

The project aims to plant three million native trees across 1,200 hectares of land and restore grassland and brushland biodiversity in indigenous territories, specifically areas near Philippine Eagle nesting sites. Aiming to restore what was lost due to human encroachments and unsustainable land use.

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The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) initiated the Forest-RegAIN project at their Malagos conservation center in Davao City on October 27, 2023.

The project aims to plant three million native trees across 1,200 hectares of land and restore grassland and brushland biodiversity in indigenous territories, specifically areas near Philippine Eagle nesting sites.

Jayson Ibañez, PEF Director of Research and Conservation, highlighted the project's significance in revitalizing lost ecosystems due to human encroachments and unsustainable land use.

"It's restoring what is lost, because of human encroachments and sustainable land uses many former forests have lost their many services including the quality of soil, which the rejunative agroforestry intends to bring back richness and quality of soil, it's also restoring the water retention capacity of land, it's also restoring the lost biodiversity," Ibañez said.

Collaborating with indigenous communities, the project will focus on removing invasive plants like cogon grass and spiked pepper and replacing them with indigenous fruit trees.

This effort promises to create a positive environmental impact, benefiting not only the Philippine eagles but also the broader ecosystem.

"It will really create a positive impact on our national bird, the Philippine Eagle, which is forest-dependent," Ibanez said.

The project is designed to engage local communities, with 180 indigenous families participating in environmental conservation. Davao del Sur, including Davao City, holds 35,119 hectares of forest land, a vital habitat for the Philippine eagles, which require 4,000 to 11,000 hectares of forest to thrive.

The joint project also involves some government offices and non-government offices (NGO), such as the Davao City Agriculturists' Office (Cagro), Alcon Farm, Canadian-based economic development organization Mennonite Economic Development Associates (Meda), the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFida), and an internationally-based NGO Reduce, Reuse, Grow (RRG), among others. ICE

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Restoring biodiversity Philippine Eagle Center initiates planting of 3M trees

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The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) has initiated the Forest-RegAIN project, which aims to plant three million native trees across 1,200 hectares of land. The project will restore grassland and brushland biodiversity in indigenous territories, specifically areas near Philippine Eagle nesting sites.

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Pangolins are the 'world's most trafficked mammal.' This man wants to save them | CNN ( RESEARCHED BY: MARGARET LEPASANA )

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URL: https://edition.cnn.com/2021/06/15/asia/goldman-environmental-prize-thai-van-nguyen-c2e-spc-intl/index.html

TITLE: Pangolins are the ‘world’s most trafficked mammal.’ This man wants to save them

AUTHOR: Nadia Leigh-Hewitson, CNN

DATE PUBLISHED: June 15, 2021

KEY INFO: Vietnamese conservationist Thai Van Nguyen has established rehabilitation centers and trained government rangers in different ways to help catch poachers, deal with technology, and aid the care of the Pangolins, who are critically extinction.

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Pangolins are the 'world's most trafficked mammal.' This man wants to save them | CNN

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Captured for their meat and for use in traditional medicine, some species of Pangolin are on the brink of extinction. Vietnamese conservationist Thai Van Nguyen has won the Goldman Environmental Prize for his work to protect the animals.

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A stray dog’s second chance at life | Look Through: Saving Strays ( RESEARCHED BY: MARGARET LEPASANA )

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URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYFO1KfJ2G4

TITLE: A stray dog’s second chance at life | Look Through: Saving Strays

AUTHOR: INQUIRER.net

DATE PUBLISHED: Nov 12, 2022

KEY CONTENT: Animal advocators share the origin of why they chose to run an animal sanctuary and share their thoughts about the rise of the stray animal population say that they need to solve the root of the problem through spay and neutering.

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A stray dog’s second chance at life | Look Through: Saving Strays

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Australia Fires: Search & Rescue, Helping Animals in Need (RESEARCH BY: MARGARET LEPASANA)

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URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziMjNT2k9Ww

TITLE: Australia Fires: Search & Rescue, Helping Animals in Need

AUTHOR: The Humane Society of the United States

DATE PUBLISHED: Feb 11, 2020

KEY CONTENT: Due to the forest fires in Australia, specifically on Kangaroo Island, wild animals such as koala bears and kangaroos are being incinerated by the fires, with many animal carcasses, animal rescue teams offer their assistance to the wildlife in need.

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Australia Fires: Search & Rescue, Helping Animals in Need

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WILDLIFE IS HERE highlight Sarangani's distinctive and rich biodiversity (RESEARCH BY: MIKHAELA HAPAY)

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URL: https://www.facebook.com/phileaglefdn/photos/a.175808889159374/8842741785799331/?paipv=0&eav=AfaOdhJQcYN1wkgPJaE6T9Shz84og4RaPBDsJnZT2KyPr4BT81DgtI_Jj7VPWcEOcmA&_rdr

TITLE: WildLife Is Here

AUTHOR: Philippine Eagle Foundation

DATE PUBLISHED: February 20, 2023

KEY CONTENT: This poster is for the WildLife is Here event, highlighting the province of Sarangani's unique and abundant biodiversity and programs to protect and restore the area's blue and green habitats.

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Philippine Eagle Foundation - WildLIFE is here! With its theme, "Sarangani's Wild", #WildLIFEIsHere2023 is happening very soon!  WIH will highlight the rich and distinctive biodiversity of the province of Sarangani, as well as initiatives to conserve and restore the region's green and blue habitats. For the FIRST TIME EVER, Wildlife is Here goes OUTSIDE the Davao Region!  WIH will be held in the City of General Santos. Thanks to the efforts of our event partner Mindanao State University - General Santos, Environmental Conservation and Protection Center, Sarangani Energy Corporation, SM General Santos City, DENR 12, and the Provincial Government of Sarangani, whose thrusts and priorities are geared towards turning everyone's attention to the world's unique species of flora and fauna that serve as emblems for the restoration of ecosystems where they thrive.  Follow our page and that of our partners so you won't miss out on this exciting event!  Teaser poster by: John Mark Cuizon Polistico  #WIHGoesSouth #WorldWildlifeDay #WildlifeIsHere2023 #WWD2023 | Facebook

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WildLIFE is here!
With its theme, "Sarangani's Wild", #WildLIFEIsHere2023 is happening very soon!

WIH will highlight the rich and distinctive biodiversity of the province of Sarangani, as well as...

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Save the Philippine Eagle Foundation from COVID-19 (RESEARCH BY: MIKHAELA HAPAY)

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URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0FW6uwV4YM

TITLE: Save the Philippine Eagle Foundation from COVID-19

AUTHOR: Dan O'Neill Wildlife

DATE PUBLISHED: June 10, 2020

KEY CONTENT: The Philippine Eagle Foundation is in an urgent crisis due to the pandemic's public closure. This has resulted in a significant loss of income and the possible inability to care for over 100 animals, including 31 critically endangered Philippine Eagles, the nation's national bird.

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Save the Philippine Eagle Foundation from COVID-19

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One-eyed Philippine Eagle Rescued in Davao (RESEARCH BY: MIKHAELA HAPAY)

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URL: https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/one-eyed-philippine-eagle-rescued-davao-january-2-2024/

TITLE: One-eyed Philippine Eagle Rescued in Davao

AUTHOR: Ivy Marie Mangadlao

DATE PUBLISHED: January 05, 2024

KEY CONTENT: On Tuesday, January 2, a severely injured Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), which is highly endangered, was saved from the wild near the Lipadas River at the Mount Apo Natural Park in Davao City. The two-year-old Philippine eagle, Lipadas, gets its name from the river and is blind in his right eye. The rescue crew included a forest guard from the indigenous Bagobo-Klata community, wildlife caretakers, and biologists from the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF).

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Ivy Marie Mangadlao/Rappler

DAVAO, Philippines - A critically endangered Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), with a severe eye injury, was rescued from the wild along the Lipadas River at the Mount Apo Natural Park, Davao City, on Tuesday, January 2.

Lipadas, named after the river, is a two-year-old Philippine eagle with a blind right eye.

The rescue team comprised biologists from the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), animal keepers, and a forest guard from the Bagobo-Klata indigenous community.

Jayson Ibanez, PEF director for research and conservation, who was also present during the rescue, said it marked the first-ever rescue of a one-eyed Philippine eagle in the wild. It is also the first PEF-documented case of an eagle acquiring an eye injury at the early stage of its nestling period.

Before the rescue, Ibanez said they consulted an expert from Kenya who examined photographs of the injured eye.

Based on the expert's analysis, the eyeballs were already swollen, and it appeared that the right eye was completely blind. Consequently, the expert recommended trapping the bird and keeping it in captivity permanently.

"We always make it a point to rescue and save each imperiled individual. And with its status now being one-eyed, its survival chances in the wild are very low. But if we rescue it and take care of it in captivity, it can still contribute new individuals to the population by breeding it and then releasing any potential offspring back to the wild to help increase population numbers," Ibañez said.

Initial assessment

The injured Philippine eagle was taken to a veterinary clinic by the breeding team for a thorough assessment.

Dr. Bayani Vandenbroeck, a veterinary consultant with PEF, conducted a physical examination, revealing that the eagle weighs 4.3 kilograms.

"The eagle seems to be healthy, except for the blind (right) eye. The eyeball is completely gone on the right side. The left eye appears normal, but changes seem to be happening inside. Also, the eagle might eventually be completely blind. There are no bullet wounds or evidence of any other recent physical injuries. The bones appear intact as well, with no evidence of fractures. The body condition score is 4/5, and it seems to have extra fats," Vandenbroeck said.

Rowell Taraya, a PEF senior biologist who led in the monitoring, assessment, and study of the eagle even before it was taken in, said the bird will undergo rehabilitation at the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) quarantine facility.

"After the full blood chemistry analysis is completed, supplemental food and medicines will be provided as needed. If its analysis showed an infection in the bloodstream, appropriate medication will be given," Taraya said.

Taraya said blood samples will also be sent to the Institute of Biology Laboratory at the University of the Philippines-Diliman for confirmatory DNA sexing, and further assessment will be sought from a resident ophthalmologist and foreign experts to determine the appropriate intervention for the eye.

Discovery

The discovery of Lipadas dates back to October 2022 when the PEF received a report from a tribal chieftain, Bagobo-Klata Datu Mariano Daug, about a Philippine eagle spotted at Lipadas River.

Daug told them that the eagle slammed against the forest floor, but flew off when locals attempted to get near it.

"The place where they saw it is a known Philippine eagle nesting territory. The territory was first discovered in 2018, and a post-fledged young was spotted together with its eagle parents. Since then, the site has been monitored with the help of the Bagobo-Klata and Bagobo-Tagabawa Bantay Bukid Volunteers from Davao City," PEF stated in a written report.

During the monitoring, the eagle, then a 10-month-old eaglet, was photographed, and a right eye injury was noted.

PEF said that although the young eagle is still capable of flying, its infected eye prevents it from going to farther areas.

The group tried trapping the then eaglet to rescue it, but it was too young to fly to the ground to catch the bait - a rabbit - and was still dependent on its parents for food.

In November 2023, the young eagle, estimated to be two years old, was observed loudly calling and "begging" for food from its parents.

"At such an age, healthy eaglets in the wild are fully independent and would have dispersed away from their parents' territory. However, perhaps due to its eye injury, it remained dependent on its parents for nourishment," the report said.

Due to concerns about the young eagle possibly starving, the team decided to give it supplemental food.

In November 2023, Lipadas managed to go down to the ground and feed, leading them to confirm that the young eagle can now confidently fly and hunt on the ground.

"To habituate the bird to the bait and ensure trapping and rescue success, we continued supplemental feeding in December. Starting December 19, 2023, our forest guards started deploying a rabbit to lure the young eagle back to the nest site. The young eagle came back and took and ate the rabbit," read part of the report.

However, after Christmas, forest guards received complaints from fellow villagers that Lipadas started feeding on native chickens from farms, and farmers threatened harm to the bird if action wasn't taken to prevent it from hunting livestock.

This prompted the PEF to schedule an emergency trapping activity and attempt a rescue on January 2.

Community-based conservation

Ibanez pointed out that Lipadas' case underscores the significance of community-based conservation.

"Lipadas' case points out the value of engaging indigenous forest guards who are the direct neighbors of Philippine eagles because of their proximity to the nesting site and familiarity with the Philippine Eagle and then other wildlife. It's practically easy for them to monitor and then protect the species. It's a proof of concept that indeed indigenous peoples can positively contribute to endangered species conservation," he said.

Christian Tan, one of the indigenous forest guards of Bagobo Klata who assisted in monitoring the eagle and was part of the rescue team, said he couldn't describe his feelings when he saw the eagle.

"It was really worth the effort because after all the time we spent monitoring it, I finally held it, and up close. I saw how beautiful and majestic it truly is," Tan said.

After the rescue, Tan said he became even more motivated to contribute to the conservation of the country's national bird. - Rappler.com
Ivy Marie Mangadlao is an Aries Rufo Journalism fellow.

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One-eyed Philippine eagle rescued in Davao

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The eagle's swollen eyeballs, along with the apparent complete blindness in the right eye, led an expert to recommend trapping the bird and keeping it in captivity permanently

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Let us gain knowledge about Mindanao's biodiversity through a database that was presented.    (RESEARCHED BY: John Jabez L. De Castro)

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URL:https://blog.pensoft.net/tag/philippines/

TITLE: MOBIOS+: An extensive database for advancing Mindanao Island’s biodiversity

AUTHOR: Pensoft blog

DATE PUBLISHED: Oct 13, 2023

KEY INFO: The data is a new set to revolutionize our understanding of the rich biodiversity in Mindanao. Information (MONIOS+) database aims to bridge these critical data gaps by compiling biodiversity information from the 21st century.

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The database is a groundbreaking and pioneering initiative set to revolutionise our understanding of the rich biodiversity of Mindanao, the second-largest island group in the Philippines.

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Preserving and conserving endangered animals, and helping them to live their own lives peacefully, a vlog by a famous Filipino comedian

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URL: https://youtu.be/_sTHOPtI1Zc?si=xAjmn5vuxRLwBs7M

TITLE: I'm getting these endangered animals to help with conservation.

AUTHOR: Mikey Bustos Vlog

DATE PUBLISHED: June 3, 2021

KEY INFO: This Filipino vlogger "Mikey Bustos Vlog" is helping these poor endangered animals by taking care of them. Through conservation it will contribute to the extinction of a certain species. Given that these animals have a chance to live and to be well preserve will surely give thwm a new life. He is partnered with some biologist to help in this conservation process.

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I'm Getting These Endangered Animals To Help With Conservation - June 3, 2021 | Vlog #1228

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URL:https://www.cbd.int/countries/profile?country=ph#:~:text=The%20Philippines%20is%20one%20of,5%25%20of%20the%20world's%20flora.

TITLE: Biodiversity Facts - Status and trends of biodiversity, including benefits from biodiversity and ecosystem services

AUTHOR: CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity)

DATE PUBLISHED: Sep, 2022

KEY INFO: Through this website you can see Statistics about the ratee of some sprcies in the Philippines. The Endemism of plants and animals are undoubtably high, since the Philippines is rank fourth on the bird endemism, and also one of the worlds biodiversity hotspots.

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Biodiversity Facts

Status and trends of biodiversity, including benefits from biodiversity and ecosystem services

The Philippines is one of 18 mega-biodiverse countries of the world, containing two-thirds of the earth's biodiversity and between 70% and 80% of the world's plant and animal species. The Philippines ranks fifth in the number of plant species and maintains 5% of the world's flora. Species endemism is very high, covering at least 25 genera of plants and 49% of terrestrial wildlife, while the country ranks fourth in bird endemism. The Philippines is also one of the world's biodiversity hotspots with at least 700 threatened species, thus making it one of the top global conservation areas. The national list of threatened faunal species was established in 2004 and includes 42 species of land mammals, 127 species of birds, 24 species of reptiles and 14 species of amphibians. In terms of fishes, the Philippines counts at least 3,214 species, of which about 121 are endemic and 76 threatened. In 2007, an administrative order issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources established a national list of threatened plant species, indicating that 99 species were critically endangered, 187 were endangered, 176 vulnerable as well as 64 other threatened species.

This unique biodiversity is supported by a large variety of ecosystems, landscapes and habitats, most of which are also greatly threatened by human activities. According to the FAO definition, the Philippines has 7.2 million ha of forest ecosystems, comprising approximately 24% of the total land area. It is however estimated that, between 2000 and 2005, the Philippines lost 2.1% of its forest cover annually, representing the second fastest rate of deforestation in Southeast Asia (second to Myanmar) and seventh in the world. The country's agricultural ecosystem is also noteworthy. The Philippines is part of the center of diversity of rice, coconut, mung bean, taro and yam, as well as the center of origin and diversity of bananas in Southeast Asia. Yet this agricultural biodiversity is nowadays experiencing general decline, as is the land area devoted to these activities.

The trend is similar for inland water biodiversity, with findings indicating a decreasing trend in water quality, fish, biodiversity and cultural value in the country's largest lake (Laguna de Bay) and its tributary rivers. The Philippines presents unique coastal, marine and island biodiversity. It is indeed located within the Coral Triangle, at the center of highest marine biodiversity. A study conducted in 2005 noted that there is a higher concentration of species per unit area in the country than anywhere in Indonesia and Wallacea. Yet this ecosystem is also greatly at risk. While the 2005 review of the state of the marine and coastal environment indicated an increase in the mangrove cover, reef cover, seagrass cover and fishery production are nowadays decreasing substantially.

The Philippines derives large benefits from ecosystems. In particular, the country recognizes the important role played by watersheds, river basins and coastal areas in the environment and in society as a source of livelihood (supporting fisheries, recreation and tourism and many other activities). For instance, a watershed with adequate forest cover provides water that supports lowland agriculture, prevents soil erosion and siltation of coasts and water bodies, and sustains the supply of surface and groundwater for domestic use. Likewise, the forest ecosystem provides ecological services that benefit agriculture, industries, water and power needs. Production forest areas for tree plantations and agroforestry activities are sources of jobs and revenues, with agriculture having represented 18.4% of the country's GDP in 2007.

Main pressures on and drivers of change to biodiversity (direct and indirect)

Threats to biodiversity differ from one ecosystem to another. In the forest ecosystem, the primary causes of forest loss are commercial exploitation and population growth (including lifestyle and consumption patterns) and the introduction of invasive alien species. Loss of biodiversity in the agricultural ecosystem is a direct consequence of habitat destruction via conversion of agricultural land to other uses; the possible negative impacts of biotechnology; natural calamities or extreme weather events associated with climate change; introduction of invasive alien species, pests and diseases; and inherent institutional problems of government agencies responsible for conserving agrobiodiversity. Yet the observed decline is also the indirect result of the increased demand for food, land and other agro-based resources; pursuit of economic growth through intensive agriculture, export-oriented policies and the promotion of extractive industries, such as mining, that are potentially damaging to the environment; and lifestyle change of farmers brought about by urbanization. Major threats to inland water biodiversity, as well as marine and coastal environments, include chemical pollution and eutrophication, fisheries operations, habitat alteration, invasion of alien species and global climate change.

Measures to Enhance Implementation of the Convention

Implementation of the NBSAP

The Philippines started formulating its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan in 1994 with the formulation of the Philippine Strategy for the Conservation of Biological Diversity (PSCBD). In 1995, the Philippines undertook an assessment of the country's biodiversity through the UNEP-assisted Philippine Biodiversity Country Study. As a result, the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) was developed and published in 1997. Five years later, in 2002, a review of the NBSAP was undertaken that identified 206 conservation priority areas and species conservation priorities, collectively known as the Philippine Biodiversity Conservation Priorities (PBCP), which is considered the second NBSAP revision and incorporates six major strategies and immediate actions. Finally, the PBCP was reinforced in 2006 with 228 key biodiversity areas (KBAs) identified covering an estimated 10.56 million hectares.

The updating of the NBSAP is on-going. The process builds on the current status and achievements of the Philippines with respect to biodiversity planning and reporting. It aims to integrate the Philippines' obligations under the CBD into its national development and sectoral planning frameworks through a renewed and participative 'biodiversity planning' and strategizing process. It is expected to produce measurable targets for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use. Interim biodiversity targets were also incorporated into the Philippine Development Plan (2011-2016).

Actions taken to achieve the 2020 Aichi Biodiversity Targets

Among the major achievements toward the 2020 Aichi Biodiversity Targets is the increase of the forest cover from 23.9% in 2003 to 52.6% of the total land area in 2006 (2007 MDG report), the extension of the terrestrial protected areas network from 8.5% in 1992 to 12.8% of the total land area in 2008 (2007 MDG report), along with 1,169 marine protected areas (in the form of reserves, sanctuaries and parks), and improvement in management effectiveness of these sites, which rose from 10-15% in 2000 to 20-30% in 2007. In addition, threatened flora and fauna were given further protection through various species conservation programs and executive and administrative issuances (with positive trends recorded for marine turtles and mangroves); the number of confiscations of illegally traded wildlife species regulated under CITES increased from 513 heads in 2005 to 11,124 heads in 2011; measures such as fish farming and eco-tourism in protected areas are being implemented to promote sustainable use and benefits for local livelihoods; indigenous knowledge and the practices of 16 tribes were documented by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) between 2005 and 2008; policy-making and access and benefit-sharing have been institutionalized through the process of free and prior informed consent from indigenous and local communities.

Support mechanisms for national implementation (legislation, funding, capacity-building, coordination, mainstreaming, etc.)

Traditionally, sectoral approaches have been used in the Philippines to manage environmental and natural resources, which have led to separate governance mechanisms for different resource uses, and conflicts in management. In the 1990s, the watershed approach, integrated Ecosystem Approach, bay regional planning, integrated river basin and coastal zone management approach to development and management emerged for planning and addressing issues that cut across ecosystems. Presidential Memo Order No. 289 (1995) was issued, directing the integration of the NBSAP, as was Executive Order No. 578 (2006) establishing national policy on biodiversity and directing all concerned government agencies and offices and local government units to integrate and mainstream the protection, conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity into their policies, rules and regulations, programs and development planning processes.

Since then, several initiatives have been launched, notably in terms of integrated watershed management. Moreover, Executive Order 533 (2006) mandated the adoption of integrated coastal management (ICM), with a recent review indicating that significant resources had been invested into ICM, with the participation of various stakeholders, and that several concerns were taken into account, ranging from poverty alleviation to food security and sustainable development.

Finally, enhanced cooperation on biodiversity management is promoted through the formalization of partnerships, either through Executive Orders, as in the case of the Bicol River Basin and the Watershed Management Councils in Lake Lanao and Bukidnon Watershed, or through a Memorandum of Agreement or Understanding, such as in the case of the Kabulnan Watershed Multi Sectoral Council. Under said councils, multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary task forces, committees, and technical working groups are organized to address specific policy decisions or implementation problems or issues, either at the local, provincial or regional level, depending on the extent of coverage of the river basin and watershed. A multi-sectoral, multi-institutional mechanism called "Network for Nature" (N4N) should be put in place to proactively disseminate, monitor and coordinate the implementation of the Philippine Biodiversity Conservation Priorities (PBCP).

Mechanisms for monitoring and reviewing implementation

Monitoring activities are led in relation to water quality, coral reefs cover (notably recording the impacts of climate change in the framework of the ICE CREAM project), and species conservation. Several biodiversity monitoring tools have been developed but sustaining the effort remains a challenge, especially after donor exit. In 1999, the Biodiversity Monitoring System (BMS) was introduced as a tool to collect data on priority species and resource use and to guide decision-making by the Protected Areas Management Board (PAMB). This was institutionalized through policy. For a time, monitoring efforts yielded promising results and resulted in management interventions. In some protected areas, the BMS was sustained through local efforts but, in general, monitoring ceased due to lack of funds. Efforts regarding the development and implementation of criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management, requiring the participation of multi-disciplinary teams, etc., had a similar fate after donor exit. The Biodiversity Indicators for National Use (BINU) for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems remain to be implemented by other stakeholders, although the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is slowly piloting them within its bureaucracy. Implementation of Conservation International's framework for monitoring biodiversity conservation outcomes held promise however has failed to fully take off due to lack of funds.

Biodiversity Facts

Status and trends of biodiversity, including benefits from biodiversity and ecosystem services

The Philippines is one of 18 mega-biodiverse countries of the world, containing two-thirds of the earth's biodiversity and between 70% and 80% of the world's plant and animal species. The Philippines ranks fifth in the number of plant species and maintains 5% of the world's flora. Species endemism is very high, covering at least 25 genera of plants and 49% of terrestrial wildlife, while the country ranks fourth in bird endemism. The Philippines is also one of the world's biodiversity hotspots with at least 700 threatened species, thus making it one of the top global conservation areas. The national list of threatened faunal species was established in 2004 and includes 42 species of land mammals, 127 species of birds, 24 species of reptiles and 14 species of amphibians. In terms of fishes, the Philippines counts at least 3,214 species, of which about 121 are endemic and 76 threatened. In 2007, an administrative order issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources established a national list of threatened plant species, indicating that 99 species were critically endangered, 187 were endangered, 176 vulnerable as well as 64 other threatened species.

This unique biodiversity is supported by a large variety of ecosystems, landscapes and habitats, most of which are also greatly threatened by human activities. According to the FAO definition, the Philippines has 7.2 million ha of forest ecosystems, comprising approximately 24% of the total land area. It is however estimated that, between 2000 and 2005, the Philippines lost 2.1% of its forest cover annually, representing the second fastest rate of deforestation in Southeast Asia (second to Myanmar) and seventh in the world. The country's agricultural ecosystem is also noteworthy. The Philippines is part of the center of diversity of rice, coconut, mung bean, taro and yam, as well as the center of origin and diversity of bananas in Southeast Asia. Yet this agricultural biodiversity is nowadays experiencing general decline, as is the land area devoted to these activities.

The trend is similar for inland water biodiversity, with findings indicating a decreasing trend in water quality, fish, biodiversity and cultural value in the country's largest lake (Laguna de Bay) and its tributary rivers. The Philippines presents unique coastal, marine and island biodiversity. It is indeed located within the Coral Triangle, at the center of highest marine biodiversity. A study conducted in 2005 noted that there is a higher concentration of species per unit area in the country than anywhere in Indonesia and Wallacea. Yet this ecosystem is also greatly at risk. While the 2005 review of the state of the marine and coastal environment indicated an increase in the mangrove cover, reef cover, seagrass cover and fishery production are nowadays decreasing substantially.

The Philippines derives large benefits from ecosystems. In particular, the country recognizes the important role played by watersheds, river basins and coastal areas in the environment and in society as a source of livelihood (supporting fisheries, recreation and tourism and many other activities). For instance, a watershed with adequate forest cover provides water that supports lowland agriculture, prevents soil erosion and siltation of coasts and water bodies, and sustains the supply of surface and groundwater for domestic use. Likewise, the forest ecosystem provides ecological services that benefit agriculture, industries, water and power needs. Production forest areas for tree plantations and agroforestry activities are sources of jobs and revenues, with agriculture having represented 18.4% of the country's GDP in 2007.

Main pressures on and drivers of change to biodiversity (direct and indirect)

Threats to biodiversity differ from one ecosystem to another. In the forest ecosystem, the primary causes of forest loss are commercial exploitation and population growth (including lifestyle and consumption patterns) and the introduction of invasive alien species. Loss of biodiversity in the agricultural ecosystem is a direct consequence of habitat destruction via conversion of agricultural land to other uses; the possible negative impacts of biotechnology; natural calamities or extreme weather events associated with climate change; introduction of invasive alien species, pests and diseases; and inherent institutional problems of government agencies responsible for conserving agrobiodiversity. Yet the observed decline is also the indirect result of the increased demand for food, land and other agro-based resources; pursuit of economic growth through intensive agriculture, export-oriented policies and the promotion of extractive industries, such as mining, that are potentially damaging to the environment; and lifestyle change of farmers brought about by urbanization. Major threats to inland water biodiversity, as well as marine and coastal environments, include chemical pollution and eutrophication, fisheries operations, habitat alteration, invasion of alien species and global climate change.

Measures to Enhance Implementation of the Convention

Implementation of the NBSAP

The Philippines started formulating its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan in 1994 with the formulation of the Philippine Strategy for the Conservation of Biological Diversity (PSCBD). In 1995, the Philippines undertook an assessment of the country's biodiversity through the UNEP-assisted Philippine Biodiversity Country Study. As a result, the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) was developed and published in 1997. Five years later, in 2002, a review of the NBSAP was undertaken that identified 206 conservation priority areas and species conservation priorities, collectively known as the Philippine Biodiversity Conservation Priorities (PBCP), which is considered the second NBSAP revision and incorporates six major strategies and immediate actions. Finally, the PBCP was reinforced in 2006 with 228 key biodiversity areas (KBAs) identified covering an estimated 10.56 million hectares.

The updating of the NBSAP is on-going. The process builds on the current status and achievements of the Philippines with respect to biodiversity planning and reporting. It aims to integrate the Philippines' obligations under the CBD into its national development and sectoral planning frameworks through a renewed and participative 'biodiversity planning' and strategizing process. It is expected to produce measurable targets for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use. Interim biodiversity targets were also incorporated into the Philippine Development Plan (2011-2016).

Actions taken to achieve the 2020 Aichi Biodiversity Targets

Among the major achievements toward the 2020 Aichi Biodiversity Targets is the increase of the forest cover from 23.9% in 2003 to 52.6% of the total land area in 2006 (2007 MDG report), the extension of the terrestrial protected areas network from 8.5% in 1992 to 12.8% of the total land area in 2008 (2007 MDG report), along with 1,169 marine protected areas (in the form of reserves, sanctuaries and parks), and improvement in management effectiveness of these sites, which rose from 10-15% in 2000 to 20-30% in 2007. In addition, threatened flora and fauna were given further protection through various species conservation programs and executive and administrative issuances (with positive trends recorded for marine turtles and mangroves); the number of confiscations of illegally traded wildlife species regulated under CITES increased from 513 heads in 2005 to 11,124 heads in 2011; measures such as fish farming and eco-tourism in protected areas are being implemented to promote sustainable use and benefits for local livelihoods; indigenous knowledge and the practices of 16 tribes were documented by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) between 2005 and 2008; policy-making and access and benefit-sharing have been institutionalized through the process of free and prior informed consent from indigenous and local communities.

Support mechanisms for national implementation (legislation, funding, capacity-building, coordination, mainstreaming, etc.)

Traditionally, sectoral approaches have been used in the Philippines to manage environmental and natural resources, which have led to separate governance mechanisms for different resource uses, and conflicts in management. In the 1990s, the watershed approach, integrated Ecosystem Approach, bay regional planning, integrated river basin and coastal zone management approach to development and management emerged for planning and addressing issues that cut across ecosystems. Presidential Memo Order No. 289 (1995) was issued, directing the integration of the NBSAP, as was Executive Order No. 578 (2006) establishing national policy on biodiversity and directing all concerned government agencies and offices and local government units to integrate and mainstream the protection, conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity into their policies, rules and regulations, programs and development planning processes.

Since then, several initiatives have been launched, notably in terms of integrated watershed management. Moreover, Executive Order 533 (2006) mandated the adoption of integrated coastal management (ICM), with a recent review indicating that significant resources had been invested into ICM, with the participation of various stakeholders, and that several concerns were taken into account, ranging from poverty alleviation to food security and sustainable development.

Finally, enhanced cooperation on biodiversity management is promoted through the formalization of partnerships, either through Executive Orders, as in the case of the Bicol River Basin and the Watershed Management Councils in Lake Lanao and Bukidnon Watershed, or through a Memorandum of Agreement or Understanding, such as in the case of the Kabulnan Watershed Multi Sectoral Council. Under said councils, multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary task forces, committees, and technical working groups are organized to address specific policy decisions or implementation problems or issues, either at the local, provincial or regional level, depending on the extent of coverage of the river basin and watershed. A multi-sectoral, multi-institutional mechanism called "Network for Nature" (N4N) should be put in place to proactively disseminate, monitor and coordinate the implementation of the Philippine Biodiversity Conservation Priorities (PBCP).

Mechanisms for monitoring and reviewing implementation

Monitoring activities are led in relation to water quality, coral reefs cover (notably recording the impacts of climate change in the framework of the ICE CREAM project), and species conservation. Several biodiversity monitoring tools have been developed but sustaining the effort remains a challenge, especially after donor exit. In 1999, the Biodiversity Monitoring System (BMS) was introduced as a tool to collect data on priority species and resource use and to guide decision-making by the Protected Areas Management Board (PAMB). This was institutionalized through policy. For a time, monitoring efforts yielded promising results and resulted in management interventions. In some protected areas, the BMS was sustained through local efforts but, in general, monitoring ceased due to lack of funds. Efforts regarding the development and implementation of criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management, requiring the participation of multi-disciplinary teams, etc., had a similar fate after donor exit. The Biodiversity Indicators for National Use (BINU) for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems remain to be implemented by other stakeholders, although the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is slowly piloting them within its bureaucracy. Implementation of Conservation International's framework for monitoring biodiversity conservation outcomes held promise however has failed to fully take off due to lack of funds.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Philippines is one of 18 mega-biodiverse countries of the world, containing two-thirds of the earth's biodiversity and between 70% and 80% of the world's plant and animal species. The Philippines ranks fifth in the number of plant species and maintains 5% of the world's flora.

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Let us read the official government website about biodiversity and its laws.                                                   (RESEARCHED BY: John Jabez L. De Castro)

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URL:https://bmb.gov.ph/protected-area-development-and-management/philippine-protected-areas/

TITLE: Philippine Protected Areas

AUTHOR: Biodiversity Management Bureau

DATE PUBISHED: March 18, 2024

KEY INFO: The Philippines has always been considered one of the mega diverse country in the world. It shows here Republic laws concerning Biodiversity in the Philippines and how to address it.

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Let us educate others with the cause and effect of illegal animal poaching. (RESEARCHED BY: HARVEY ALGABRE)

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14. Non-government organization or academic institution article

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14. Non-government organization or academic institution article

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URL:https://www.worldwildlife.org/threats/illegal-wildlife-trade

TITLE: Illegal wildlife trade

AUTHOR:World Wild life Fund

DATE PUBLISHED: Unknown

KEY INFO: This is about World Wildlife Fund's page on illegal wildlife trade. It contains information about the various aspects of this issue, including its impact on biodiversity, ecosystems, and efforts to combat it.

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Understanding the effects of illegal wild life trading, as it can also be dangerous to humans. ( RESEARCHED BY: HARVEY ALGABRE)

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URL: https://youtu.be/JqwjlNkRPkY?si=5hMOJrnZoD0_couU

TITLE: E4J Global Podcast Series - Episode 2: The illegal wildlife trade in the context of zoonotic disease

AUTHOR: UNODC

DATE PUBLISHED: SEP 18, 2020

KEY INFO: The video delves into the illegal wildlife trade and its link to zoonotic diseases, suggesting its role in various outbreaks like COVID-19.

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UNODC - United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

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E4J Global Podcast Series - Episode 2: The illegal wildlife trade in the context of zoonotic disease

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This video explores how Poaching and Wildlife Trafficking Works (RESEARCHED BY: HARVEY ALGABRE)

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URL:https://youtu.be/kfIFVuv4bcw?si=xD6MYRihlwPN5yJF

TITLE: How Poaching and Wildlife Trafficking Works |Wildlife Trade Explained | ENDEVR Documentary

AUTHOR: ENDEVR

DATE PUBLISHED: October 13, 2021

KEY CONTENT: This documentary shows how greedy people and big criminal groups are causing rare animals to disappear by hunting them illegally. It explains why they're doing it and who's buying these animal parts, like ivory and rhino horns.

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How Poaching and Wildlife Trafficking Works | Wildlife Trade Explained | ENDEVR Documentary

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Spread your wings and soar with us as Philippine eagle experts Dr. Jayson Ibanez and Dr. Luke Sutton share with us their findings on the population distribution of the critically endangered bird. (RESEARCHED BY: KYLERITCH ROMANO J. GALE)

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URL: https://fb.watch/ql0kSXeJpF/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v

TITLE: Webinar on Philippine Eagle Distribution Modeling AUTHOR:DENR-Biodiversity Management Bureau

DATE PUBLISHED:September 20, 2022

KEY CONTENT: Philippine eagle experts Dr. Jayson Ibanez and Dr. Luke Sutton share their findings on the population distribution of the critically endangered bird shedding light on the challenges faced by these wonderful creatures and emphasizes the urgency of the conservation efforts. They discuss about using telemetry studies to estimate population and track the distribution of Philippine Eagles throughout Mindanao.

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URL:“Davao Region's Natural Treasures” (Tanging ... - EMB-XIEMBhttps://r11.emb.gov.ph › uploads › 2021/10 › 20...

TITLE: Davao Region’s Natural Treasures(Tanging Yaman ng Rehiyon Onse)

AUTHOR: Regional Inter Agency Committee On Environmental Education

DATE PUBLISHED:Jan 2019

KEY CONTENT: This book aims to provide a better understanding about the environment and natural resources providing information about the proper way of planting trees, wildlife conservation and protection, protected areas, and the classification of lands. With this information it is intended to promote the importance of taking care and to conserve the environment keeping it clean and green for the animals and the future generations.

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(RESEARCHED BY: KYLERITCH ROMANO J. GALE)

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URL:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371069491_Overview_of_priorities_threats_and_challenges_to_biodiversity_conservation_in_the_southern_Philippines

TITLE: Overview of priorities, threats, and challenges to biodiversityconservation in the southern Philippines

AUTHOR:Angelo Rellama Agduma, Francisco Gil Garcia Ma Teodora Cabasan, Jonald Pimentel, Renee Jane Ele, Meriam Rubio, Sedra Murray, Bona Abigail Hilario-Husain, Kier Celestial Dela Cruz, Sumaira Abdullah, Shiela Mae Balase, Krizler Cejuela Tanalgo

DATE PUBLISHED:May 19, 2023

KEY CONTENT: In Mindanao, according to data from Global Forest Watch (2022), the total tree cover loss from 2000 to 2021 was approximately 5.11 × 10^6 hectares. Because of deforestation, increased agricultural production, and mining, compared to other regions the northeastern region has had a greater loss of tree cover than. The places with the highest documented species densities also have the highest losses in tree cover, those are home to birds, reptiles, and amphibians. These have negative implications to the biodiversity as these harm the habitat of species relying on the trees for shelter.

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Philippine Eagle (RESEACHED BY: KYLERITCH ROMANO J. GALE)

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URL: https://www.artistsforconservation.org/artists/1364/portfolio/philippine-eagle-2886

TITLE: "Philippine Eagle"

AUTHOR: Kitty Harvill

DATE PUBLISHED: Unknown

KEY CONTENT: This is a wallhanging portrait of an endangered Philippine eagle flying above its habitat. During the painting process up until current times, the subject that is shown in the painting, the Philippine Eagle, predominately found in Mindanao, is still a part of the list of critically endangered species, inspiring the artist to create this art piece and invoking awareness of this concurrent issue. Through the sale of this artwork, the artist will donate 15% of the sale to the Philippine Eagle Foundation, a conservation center for the endangered Philippine eagle.

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Fieldset

Subject(s):

Portrait of the endangered Philippine Eagle

Available as Ltd Edition:

Artist will donate 15% to Philippine Eagle Foundation from sale of this work.

Buy Button

Portrait of the endangered Philippine Eagle flying above his habitat.

Artwork Inquiry (with Artist)

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Fieldset Subject(s): Portrait of the endangered Philippine Eagle Available as Ltd Edition: Artist will donate 15% to Philippine Eagle Foundation from sale of this work. Buy Button Portrait of the endangered Philippine Eagle flying above his habitat. Artwork Inquiry (with Artist)