November 11, 2024, marked a momentous occasion in the conservation of the Philippine Eagle—a species unique to the archipelago and under dire threat. Chick No. 30, a tiny yet powerful symbol of hope, broke through its shell at the newly inaugurated National Bird Breeding Sanctuary (NBBS) in Eden, Toril. The sanctuary, part of the Philippine Eagle Foundation’s (PEF) expanded efforts, has seen its first successful hatching only months after opening, representing a major milestone in the fight to save this critically endangered bird.
Nestled in the lush greenery of Toril, the NBBS was designed as a sanctuary dedicated to the breeding and recovery of the Philippine Eagle. This chick’s arrival, following a 56-day incubation period, is a testament to the PEF’s expertise, dedication, and use of advanced methods and technologies. With only an estimated 400 Philippine Eagles remaining in the wild, each hatchling is essential for the species’ survival. The arrival of Chick No. 30 was made possible by the PEF’s team, who employed the “help out” technique—a specialized intervention where a small incision is made in the egg to ensure sufficient airflow, reducing the risk of suffocation from carbon buildup.
“The decision to use the ‘help out’ method was not made lightly,” explained Mr. Domingo Tadena, NBBS Facility Manager and a veteran in conservation breeding. “It was a calculated measure based on years of experience and careful monitoring of the chick’s status during incubation. Without our intervention, the risk of losing this hatching to suffocation was high.” Tadena emphasized that the chick’s survival symbolizes more than a successful breeding cycle—it showcases the PEF’s skilled, knowledgeable approach and the unwavering commitment of the conservation team.
A Coordinated Effort Across Facilities and Nations
The chick, whose parents were united through cooperative artificial insemination, is the offspring of Pinpin, who undertook natural incubation for the first seven days, and Sinag, a semen donor based at the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC). This breeding effort started as early as July with the eagles’ vocal courtship displays and intensified over the following months. Pinpin laid the egg on September 16, leading to the subsequent delicate and rigorous incubation phase.
Behind the scenes, a combination of high-tech equipment and cross-border collaboration was essential. Liberec Zoo in the Czech Republic donated advanced incubation tools that helped create ideal conditions for the egg’s development. “This hatching marks a historic first for the NBBS, occurring just months after its establishment,” Tadena shared. “It proves that with cutting-edge technology, cross-cultural collaboration, and unwavering dedication, we can create new hope for the Philippine Eagle and ensure that future generations will also witness the beauty of this majestic bird.”
The Fight for Survival
The Philippine Eagle’s struggle to survive has been a longstanding one, as the species faces critical threats from deforestation and poaching. The birth of Chick No. 30 serves as a reminder of the urgency of these conservation efforts. Dennis Salvador, PEF’s Executive Director, spoke to the broader context of the achievement: “This accomplishment underscores the unique challenges faced by specialists in breeding our National Bird. They are not only difficult to pair, but also only mature and become productive after a long time. One necessarily needs to invest time and resources to make it work. But more importantly, besides skill, knowledge, and experience, it is the dedication and passion of our team that made this possible,” he said, acknowledging the personal sacrifices and passion that drive the team’s success.
A Community of Conservation Champions
Corporate support from partners such as Boysen Philippines and Philippine Airlines has played a crucial role in supporting the NBBS’s efforts. Boysen’s commitment to Philippine Eagle conservation began years ago with the adoption of Pinpin, while Philippine Airlines has adopted Sinag. Mr. Justin C. Ongsue, VP for Sales and Operations at Boysen, emphasized the company’s dedication: “Seeing her contribute to the successful hatching of Chick No. 30 reaffirms our commitment to protecting this majestic species. We believe in the power of conservation partnerships, and we are honored to play a part in PEF’s tireless efforts to secure a future for the Philippine Eagle.”
Hope in a New Hatchling
Chick No. 30 represents not only a new life but a renewed commitment to preserving the Philippine Eagle for future generations. As it grows under the care of the NBBS, the Philippine Eagle Foundation remains committed to their work with Pinpin, Sinag, and every eagle under their care, each one a crucial member of a shrinking species in need of protection.
This achievement shines a light on the complex, rewarding, and at times painstaking work that goes into every single successful hatchling. It’s a hopeful milestone for Philippine Eagle conservation and a reminder of what can be achieved when expertise, technology, and dedication come together.
