Today is the third Friday of May, and the world is commemorating the 16th Annual Endangered Species Day. On this day, we are encouraged to raise awareness about the plight of endangered species and wildlife and grab the opportunity to learn more about it, and take the necessary steps to save and protect it through our collective efforts.
Upon witnessing the most significant challenge on the well-being of animals in 1960-1970. Concerning the harmed, immensely affected welfare, and alarming decrease in the number of different species, especially the hardly found ones, the Endangered Species Act of 1973 was signed into law on December 28 to raise the importance of wildlife conservation and restoration efforts of all imperiled species. However, the U.S. Senate first celebrated International Endangered Species Day in 2006, even after the United States implemented it a long time ago and was created by U.S. Senate John Dingell.
In the Philippines, we are considered one of the megadiverse countries with almost 75% of the world's biodiversity. Because of its geographical isolation, diverse habitats, and high rates of endemism, it contains two-thirds of the Earth's biodiversity and 70% of the world's plant and animal species; its biodiversity also provides several ecosystem services (USAID 2016). However, because we are one of the wealthiest countries in terms of having these various species, humans have outdone themselves in their activities, causing an alarming destruction rate from habitat loss and the emergence of climate change. There has been widespread depletion of the country's resources, increasing the number of endangered species. As a result, our nation faces significant challenges in protecting, conserving, and developing its biodiversity and substantially impacting the fluctuation of its population. To some extent, it may lead to extinction.
According to DENR data, the country houses an estimated 53,000 species, including 15,000 plants and 38,000 animals. There are currently over 700 threatened plant and animal species in the country. It is home to 42 terrestrial mammal species, 127 bird species, 24 reptiles, 14 amphibians, and 76 fish species. Unfortunately, our national bird and well-known animal in our country are included. The Philippine Eagle (Phitecopaga jefferyi), also known as the monkey-eating eagle, is the national bird of the Philippines. It breeds in lowland rain forests, and its total population is now estimated to be less than 700 birds. Different breeding programs have been ineffective, and the only way for it to survive is to protect its habitat. Nonetheless, due to increased rates of deforestation in the Philippines, it will be difficult to achieve. The Philippine eagle is now a critically endangered species, with only 32% of its forest cover remaining and forests rapidly disappearing.
One of the world's rarest animals inhabited here in our country is considered the most threatened mammal, the Tamaraw. It is a type of draw buffalo that we can only find on Mindoro Island in the Philippines. Despite their tiny stature, they are known for having a fiery temper and will prepare their horns against strangers. It is now classified as critically endangered because it has only been found on the island of Mindoro, with only 480 population. In addition, the well-known animal population found primarily in Bohol, Philippines, is also under threat. Tarsiers are tiny leaping primates and are the only known carnivorous primates and prey on insects and sometimes even snakes. When held in captivity or even just touched, this species becomes easily stressed and self-destructive. Apart from these, Philippine spotted deer, which are found on the islands of Western Visayas, are in critical condition. They are becoming extinct due to a limited range, habitat conversion (due to agriculture and logging), and hunting. Some are used for game/trophies, some are sold to specialty restaurants, and some are kept as pets.
We have all learned that knowing the endangerment of species is a big deal for us to know and take responsibility. So we must participate in movements and actions to protect these threatened species and the biodiverse as a whole. As we now have the opportunity to prevent many species from extinction, we must learn significant and even simple ways to contribute to the protection of these vulnerable species.
Before anything else, learn more about our country's endangered species and become more knowledgeable about them, making it easier to spread awareness as we apply it to our respective areas. We can easily disseminate information and encouragement about this subject all by the use of our modern technology. One way to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife protection and care is to educate people about the consequences. Furthermore, it would greatly assist people in understanding how they could provide for and contribute to various movements aimed at wildlife conservation and protection. Aside from habitat loss and human overhunting, climate change is another factor that threatens endangered species. So, to reduce the prevalence of this climate issue, we must begin to act even in our own homes. For example, we could make it a habit to reduce our carbon footprint and food waste. However, suppose we also want to preserve our diverse wildlife and its habitat. In that case, we must strongly oppose purchasing products from polluters and products derived from threatened or endangered species.
On this day, we should show our support for movements that passionately advocate for the protection, conservation, and welfare of these species by putting pressure on public officials to continue enacting policies that will alleviate these species' sufferings and slow the extinction of our beloved animals. Let us take advantage of our opportunities as citizens of the twenty-first century to volunteer to protect our wildlife. Because, as the Regional Director of Visayas stated, "We depend on biodiversity to live and survive here on Earth thus, in our hands, lies the power to save and preserve these wildlife species for a balanced and healthful ecology.." Indeed, it is our responsibility to keep these species alive and balance our planet to improve our living experience here on Earth.
21 May 2021
References:
Ani, A. and Castillo, M. (2020, April 18). Revisiting the State of the Philippine Biodiversity and Legislation on Access and Benefit Sharing. https://ap.fftc.org.tw/article/1836
National Endangered Species Day 2020: History, significance & more. https://www.dnaindia.com/lifestyle/report-national-endangered-species-day-2020-history-significance-more-2824843
Neri, T. (2021, March 4). 5 endangered species in the Philippines. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1887751/Cebu/Feature/5-endangered-species-in-the-Philippines
Perez, D. (2019, July 03). Species at Risk: The Most Critically Endangered Animals in the Philippines. https://ecowarriorprincess.net/2019/07/most-critically-endangered-animals-philippines/
USAID. (n.d.). Philippine Biodiversity and Watersheds Improved for Stronger Economy and Ecosystem Resilience (B+Wiser) Program. https://www.usaid.gov/philippines/energy-and-environment/bwiser#:~:text=The%20Philippines%20is%20one%20of,biodiversity%20provides%20several%20ecosystem%20services
Conde, M. (2020, August 20). Rangers protecting Philippine tamaraws go hungry as pandemic bites. https://news.mongabay.com/2020/08/rangers-protecting-philippine-tamaraws-go-hungry-as-pandemic-bites/
Sarmiento, B. (2021, January 8). A good year for the Philippine eagle in 2020, but not for its supporters. https://news.mongabay.com/2021/01/a-good-year-for-the-philippine-eagle-in-2020-but-not-for-its-supporters/
Regional Executive Director Francisco E. Milla, Jr. Statement. https://www.denr.gov.ph/index.php/news-events/regional-releases/1498-denr-6-observes-world-wildlife-day-2020
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