Manila:The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is engaging with Czech institutions to enhance efforts in conserving the critically endangered Philippine Eagle and other threatened wildlife species.

According to Philippines News Agency, the potential collaborations were discussed during a conservation mission led by the DENR to the Czech Republic from October 11 to 18. This mission included government officials, conservation specialists, researchers, and zoological institutions to strategize on biodiversity protection.

The DENR aims to employ a comprehensive governmental and societal approach to biodiversity conservation, highlighting the importance of international collaboration. The Philippine Eagle faces severe threats such as habitat loss, hunting, and electrocution by powerlines, necessitating enhanced conservation strategies and partnerships.

The DENR, alongside the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), evaluated European technologies and breeding protocols to protect vulnerable endemic species. They also discussed measures to prevent bird electrocution with the Nature Conservancy Agency of the Czech Republic, including insulating hazardous power poles.

The delegation visited the Liberec Zoo to study its conservation programs. The mission also explored research collaborations on Philippine Eagle genetics and population modelling to bolster science-based conservation strategies.

The DENR delegation was led by Undersecretary Ernesto Adobo Jr. and Anson Tagtag, with PEF Director Jayson Ibanez and veterinarian Danielle Pasion providing expertise.