Agilaya: A Look into the Life of the Philippine Eagle

The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), Ateneo Institute of Sustainability (AIS), The Ateneo Wild (TAW), the Department of Biology, and Ateneo BOx, celebrated the 25th Philippine Eagle Week with a campaign titled "Agilaya: Lasting Freedom for the Philippine Eagle" last 8 June 2023.

As a keystone species at the top of the Philippines' exceptional ecological pyramid, the Philippine Eagle is an astonishing apex predator. Seeing a healthy eagle in the wild indicates a healthy forest. However, since 1996 they have been classified as critically endangered and it is estimated that there are less than 400 pairs left in the wild. Their population faces complicated threats such as hunting and illegal animal trading. Rapid habitat destruction also endangers the eagles and may potentially upset the ecological balance despite the existence of regulations protecting the bird and its habitat. PEF is committed to saving the eagles and maintaining healthy forests to help us secure a better future. 

"Malaya Goes to Universities" was a memorable platform that advocated for the conservation of the Philippine Eagle and provided insight into the challenges for its conservation. By raising awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship to protect endangered species, the program provided an opportunity for the Ateneo community to engage in various activities to learn more about the Philippine Eagle and learn about how to preserve the precious biodiversity of the Philippines.

The event featured a 45-minute documentary titled "To Save Our Eagles" which shed light on the challenges faced by the "Haribon," and championed the dedicated efforts of conservationists and researchers who have been working tirelessly to protect the Philippine Eagle and its habitat. The film emphasized the significance of community involvement in environmental conservation, stressed the importance of preserving the rainforests of the Philippines as a haven for countless other species, and invited us to reflect on the milestones of championing species conservation. 

Throughout the event, participants were also tested on their knowledge about Philippine Eagles and were encouraged to spread awareness on conservation by a special guest; Malaya the Philippine Eagle mascot. Malaya’s memorable and fun dance moves excited the audience and brought the event to a close.

Attendees were encouraged to continue supporting the ongoing mission to save the Philippine Eagle, protect forests, and secure a sustainable future for the country. Through education, engagement, and active participation, the event hopefully inspired individuals to take a stand in safeguarding the Philippine Eagle and its habitat. 

Find out more about the Philippine Eagle, the Philippine Eagle Foundation, and how you can help by visiting their website at https://www.philippineeaglefoundation.org/.