The vibrant city of Zamboanga is once again soaring to new heights as the Día de Zamboanga Bird Festival takes flight, kicking off with a captivating photo exhibit titled “Pájaros de Zamboanga.” Held at the City Hall Lobby, this visual spectacle showcases the rich avian diversity of the region, bringing attention to the significance of bird conservation.
The exhibit, which runs from February 21 to 28 (excluding weekends), was inaugurated through a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by City Administrator Atty. Wendell Sotto, representing Mayor John Dalipe. He was joined by esteemed guests, including Dr. Fredelino San Juan of Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), Dr. Alvin Reyes of Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST), Agaton Baysa of DENR-PAMO Zamboanga Bird Club, and City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian-Hernandez.
Organized by the City Museum Services Division under Architect Ildefonso Torres, Jr., the exhibit is designed to educate and inspire the public on the importance of preserving Zamboanga’s rich bird population. Through stunning imagery, visitors can appreciate the beauty of local and migratory birds that find refuge in the city’s lush landscapes.
The Día de Zamboanga Bird Festival, scheduled from February 21 to 22, is an integral part of the city’s annual Día de Zamboanga celebration on February 26. This event not only highlights Zamboanga’s natural wonders but also emphasizes its cultural heritage. Organized by the City Government through the City Tourism Office, the festival is made possible in collaboration with ZSCMST and various environmental organizations.
Following the exhibit’s opening, a symposium was held at ZSCMST, featuring discussions on bird conservation and ecological sustainability. Participants also had the opportunity to engage in an immersive bird-watching tour at the ZSCMST bird sanctuary, providing firsthand experience in appreciating and identifying various bird species in their natural habitat.
The festival’s second day offers even more exciting experiences for birdwatching enthusiasts. Participants will venture into some of Zamboanga’s premier bird sanctuaries, including Great Sta. Cruz Island, Pasonanca Natural Park, and the WMSU Experimental Forest in Barangay La Paz. These locations are known for their diverse bird populations and serve as vital ecosystems for both resident and migratory species.
As the Pájaros de Zamboanga exhibit and festival unfold, the city reaffirms its commitment to environmental conservation. By raising awareness and fostering appreciation for its feathered inhabitants, Zamboanga takes a step closer to ensuring a sustainable future where both birds and humans can thrive in harmony.