Philippine eagles sighted in Cotabato after two-year absence

At least two Philippine eagles have been sighted at Mt. Sinaka, Cotabato Province, during a DENR Region 12 monitoring from November 4 to 7, marking their return after a two-year absence.

Experts from the DENR believe the eagles' absence was due to factors such as seasonal changes in food supply, avoidance of competition, and natural dispersal patterns of young eagles.

The critically endangered Philippine eagle, also the national bird and top carnivore, is found only in Luzon, Leyte, Samar, and Mindanao.

The species faces threats from deforestation, hunting, and habitat loss, with only about 400 pairs remaining in the wild.

DENR Soccsksargen views these sightings as encouraging signs of the continued success of conservation efforts in the region.