A rescued endangered South Philippine Hawk-Eagle and a Philippine long-tailed macaque have been released back into the wild in Baliguian, Zamboanga del Norte, marking another effort to protect native wildlife and preserve the province’s biodiversity.
The two juvenile animals were released last week by personnel of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)-Liloy at a carefully selected site considered suitable for their return to their natural habitat.
Before the release, technical personnel conducted health assessments and handling procedures to determine whether the animals were physically fit and ready for reintegration into the wild. The process was carried out under the supervision of CENRO-Liloy Officer-in-Charge Maribel Acama.
The South Philippine Hawk-Eagle, also known as Nisaetus pinskeri, is an endangered raptor endemic to the Philippines. The young eagle had previously been rescued in Zamboanga del Norte and turned over to environmental authorities for care and assessment before its eventual release.
The release of the macaque likewise highlights the importance of returning rescued wildlife to suitable natural habitats whenever their condition allows. Philippine long-tailed macaques are native to the country but can face threats from habitat loss, capture and unauthorized possession.
Acama said the release forms part of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ continuing wildlife protection and conservation efforts. She emphasized that rescued animals should be properly assessed and cared for before being returned to their natural environment.
Environmental authorities also urged residents to avoid capturing or keeping wild animals as pets. Instead, people who encounter injured, displaced or illegally kept wildlife are encouraged to report the animals to the proper authorities so they can receive appropriate care and, when possible, be returned to the wild.
Community cooperation remains an important part of wildlife conservation, particularly in areas where people regularly encounter native animals near forests, farms and residential communities. Prompt reporting can help prevent unnecessary injury, improper handling and illegal wildlife possession.
The latest release adds to ongoing conservation work in Zamboanga del Norte, where environmental officials have continued rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife before returning animals to suitable habitats.
The successful return of the two juveniles provides another reminder that protecting endangered and native species depends not only on government enforcement but also on public awareness and responsible treatment of wildlife.
