Tacurong City’s Office for Veterinary Services (OVS) conducted a bird surveillance activity at the Baras Bird Sanctuary on April 2, 2025, as part of its ongoing efforts to safeguard the city from avian influenza, particularly during the breeding season of migratory birds.
The activity aimed to ensure that the birds currently nesting and laying eggs in the sanctuary remain free from bird flu, especially the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus, which can also affect humans.
“It is important to monitor the health condition of these birds, as they may be carriers of viruses from various locations they’ve migrated from,” explained City Veterinarian Dr. Allan R. Alimajen, Jr.
During the surveillance, a total of twelve birds were examined, including egrets and both adult and juvenile Black-crowned Night Herons. Blood samples were collected from the birds and immediately sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results are expected within three to five days.
The surveillance activity was also witnessed by Bachelor of Science in Biology students from Sultan Kudarat State University, who observed the sample collection process and learned about avian health monitoring.
While Tacurong City was officially declared bird flu-free in 2024, the OVS continues to conduct regular monitoring to maintain the city’s disease-free status and protect public health.
Meanwhile, the Baras Bird Sanctuary remains open but is currently under the supervision of the Heirs of the late Engr. Orlando B. Malana and Mrs. Gloria E. Malana. This follows the expiration of the previous 10-year lease agreement between the city government and the late Malana couple.
Negotiations for a new Provisional Contract of Lease have already been completed, and the partnership between LGU Tacurong and the Malana family is expected to resume upon signing of the agreement. However, preparations and improvements related to the sanctuary’s operations under LGU Tacurong are temporarily affected by the election ban in place ahead of the May 2025 Midterm Elections.
In the meantime, the operation of Baras Bird Sanctuary is at the sole discretion of the Malana family. The public is encouraged to continue supporting them during this transition period.