TARLAC — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through its Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Capas, has returned “Igan,” a rehabilitated Brahminy kite, locally known as lawin, to its natural habitat in Tarlac as part of efforts to protect wildlife and preserve biodiversity.
Residents of Barangay Green Village in Concepcion, Tarlac, turned over the bird to DENR after finding it weak and unable to fly following a typhoon. They immediately sought assistance from the agency, demonstrating the important role of community participation in wildlife conservation.
Following an assessment, DENR wildlife officers recommended the bird for rehabilitation. For nearly two weeks, CENRO Capas provided food, care, and regular monitoring until the raptor regained its strength and was ready for release. During its recovery, DENR personnel named the bird “Igan.”
CENRO Capas Chief Isagani Manalili said the bird’s recovery highlights how public awareness and cooperation can contribute to wildlife protection.
“Igan’s recovery shows that when residents report and turn over wildlife, they become partners in protecting biodiversity. Public awareness and proper handling are key to ensuring that injured animals can safely return to their natural habitat,” he said.
The Brahminy kite is a native bird of prey in the Philippines. Although it is not classified as endangered, it is protected under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09 as an Other Wildlife Species. It also contributes to ecological balance as part of the country’s wildlife.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo urged the public to report encounters with injured or distressed wildlife to the nearest DENR office for proper guidance and assistance. He also reminded the public to refrain from hunting, capturing, or harming wild animals.
Pablo emphasized that the release demonstrates the importance of cooperation between communities and DENR personnel in protecting wildlife and conserving the country’s biodiversity. (UnliNews Online)
