Philippine Eagle Foundation Celebrates 39 Years of Dedicated Conservation Efforts
For nearly four decades, the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) has been a steadfast champion of conservation, tirelessly working to protect the country's national bird and ensure these majestic raptors continue to thrive in the forests of the Philippines. The foundation's unwavering commitment has been a beacon of hope in the fight against extinction.
A Legacy Built on Choice and Action
Felicia H. Atienza, chairperson of the Board of Trustees, emphasized that PEF was founded on the belief that extinction is not an inevitable fate. "If we act now, we can change the outcome," she stated during a speech at the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) on February 14, 2026. Atienza highlighted that for 39 years, conservation progress has been driven by conscious choices: people choosing to care, scientists dedicating their careers, forest guards protecting critical habitats, and Indigenous communities partnering with the foundation. "And because of those choices, the Philippine Eagle still soars," she proudly declared.
She stressed that the anniversary is not merely a retrospective event but a call to action, underscoring that conservation is a daily, deliberate choice. "It's a choice to protect forests, build partnerships, and believe that hope is active, not passive—it is built through sustained effort," Atienza explained.
Significant Milestones and Collaborative Achievements
In 2025, PEF made substantial strides, bolstered by partnerships such as the Boeing and PEF conservation alliance. Key advancements included:
- Investing in national breeding programs to enhance genetic diversity.
- Improving facilities at the Philippine Eagle Center for better care and research.
- Advancing the development of a conservation academy to train future leaders.
Atienza also celebrated the successful release of Philippine Eagles in Leyte, a bold initiative to reintroduce these birds into their natural habitats. Additionally, the discovery of new nesting sites in Luzon and Mindanao served as powerful evidence that forest protection yields tangible results. "When forests are protected, life responds," she noted, attributing these successes to collaborations with the Local Government Unit of Javier in Leyte, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and other partners. "These milestones are not accidents; they result from rigorous science, hopeful partnerships, and sustained action," she affirmed.
Urgent Calls for Future Conservation
As PEF approaches its 40th year, Atienza warned that conservation efforts have become more urgent due to complex and accelerating biodiversity challenges. However, she expressed confidence in the foundation's resolve, inviting everyone to continue choosing conservation, collaboration, and hope. "We can make a difference," she urged.
Echoing this sentiment, Dennis J. Salvador, executive director of PEF, reflected on the foundation's origins. "Thirty-nine years ago, we had one vision: that the Philippine Eagle would not disappear under our watch," he said. This vision has united scientists, donors, educators, forest guards, and many others in a common cause.
Salvador emphasized that anniversaries are about looking forward, not just back. "Our work remains urgent and important: forests need protection, communities need empowerment, and science must guide our actions," he stated. He highlighted the Philippine Eagle as a symbol of national strength, resilience, and responsibility, calling for efforts to save the eagles, protect forests, and secure the future for the next generation.
Recognition and Ongoing Initiatives
This year's theme, "39 Years of Science, Partnerships, and Hope: Choose because #YouCan," underscores the foundation's collaborative spirit. Local government units, private partners, and notable figures like Kuya Kim Atienza were recognized for their contributions to conservation. A new milestone wall was unveiled, chronicling PEF's steps from 2024 to 2025, showcasing the tangible progress made through dedication and teamwork.
