Rescued Eagle Flown From Basilan to Davao—But What Happens to ‘Trajan’ Next Could Be Crucial

A juvenile White-bellied Sea Eagle rescued in Basilan has been given a new chance at survival after being transported to the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) in Davao City for specialized care and rehabilitation.

The young raptor, identified as a White-bellied Sea Eagle, arrived at the facility on September 10 following a coordinated effort involving the Philippine Army, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and wildlife conservation personnel.

The bird, named “Trajan,” was rescued in Basilan and subsequently turned over to the Philippine Eagle Center, where specialists conducted an initial assessment before placing it under professional care.

The operation involved the 1101st Infantry (Gagandilan) Brigade, the DENR office in Isabela City, and the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division of the Philippine Army.

Major General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division and a former brigade commander in Basilan, helped facilitate the eagle’s safe transportation to Davao after authorities sought assistance in bringing the bird to a facility capable of providing specialized wildlife rehabilitation.

From Basilan to Davao

Transporting Trajan to the Philippine Eagle Center was considered an important step because rescued raptors require specialized veterinary attention, appropriate nutrition and controlled rehabilitation to give them the best possible chance of recovery.

The PEC, operated by the Philippine Eagle Foundation, is based in Malagos, Baguio District, Davao City, and is dedicated to the conservation of Philippine Eagles and other native wildlife. The center also cares for other raptor species, including White-bellied Sea Eagles.

Wildlife specialists will now determine Trajan’s condition and rehabilitation needs. If the eagle eventually regains sufficient strength and meets the necessary criteria, returning it to the wild may become possible.

Army, DENR join forces for wildlife rescue

The case also highlights how government agencies can work together when wildlife rescue operations require transportation, coordination and specialized facilities.

The Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division said the initiative reflects continuing cooperation among the military, DENR, local stakeholders and wildlife conservation organizations to protect the country’s natural heritage.

For Maj. Gen. Luzon, Trajan’s story demonstrates the importance of institutions working together to protect wildlife.

Luzon also adopted Trajan to help support the young eagle’s continued care and rehabilitation at the Philippine Eagle Center.

A second chance for Trajan

The rescue is significant because the White-bellied Sea Eagle is among the native birds of prey found in the Philippines. The species is distinct from the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, although both can receive care at the Philippine Eagle Center.

The Philippine Eagle Foundation says its conservation work extends beyond the country’s iconic Philippine Eagle to protecting native wildlife and the ecosystems on which these species depend.

For Trajan, the journey from Basilan to Davao marks the beginning of a critical recovery period.

Now under the supervision of wildlife professionals, the young eagle has access to the veterinary care, nutrition and rehabilitation it needs.

The bigger question is what comes next: Will Trajan recover strongly enough to return to the wild?

For now, the young raptor has been given something that could make all the difference—a second chance.