Southern Luzon State University (SLSU), the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), and the Forest Foundation Philippines (FFP) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to support the potential reintroduction of Philippine Eagles in Mt. Banahaw, Lucban, Quezon, on Tuesday, March 25.
SLSU was represented by Dr. Frederick T. Villa, University President; Dr. Cecilia N. Gascon, Director of the Resource Linkages Office; and Dr. Francisco N. Beltran, Head of the Mt. Banahaw Forest Protection and Conservation Unit. The PEF team was led by Mr. Dennis Joseph I. Salvador, Executive Director, and Dr. Jayson C. Ibañez, Director for Research and Conservation. FFP was represented by Mr. Eric Buduan, Northern Philippines Coordinator.
With the MoU signed, SLSU will allow the conduct of assessment of the 1,660-hectare forestlands under its management within the Mt. Banahaw to determine their suitability as a Philippine Eagle habitat. Meanwhile, PEF will provide technical expertise, and FFP will primarily support the initiative through project funding.
This collaboration aligns with SLSU’s commitment to preserving Mt. Banahaw and supports the national government’s efforts to protect the critically endangered Philippine Eagle for future generations.
Article & Layout: Glen Cuya
Photos: Jillian H. Bautista