Rescued Philippine Serpent Eagle released back to the wild

A rescued juvenile Philippine Serpent Eagle (Spilornis holospilus) was released back into its natural habitat on 14 October 2025, following successful rehabilitation by wildlife authorities.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Soccsksargen, the young raptor was rescued in Barangay Ilomavis on 13 October 2025, after accidentally crash-landing inside a local resident’s house.

Weighing approximately 0.6 kilograms and measuring 20 inches in body length, the bird was immediately reported to the Mount Apo Natural Park–Protected Area Management Office (MANP–PAMO), which coordinated a swift response. The PENRO Cotabato Wildlife Rescue Team retrieved the eagle and brought it to the City Veterinary Office for medical evaluation.

Dr. Jessa Dell Remonde, DVM, conducted the examination and found the eagle healthy and fit for release, with no major injuries detected. Following clearance, the eagle was safely returned to the wild the following day in accordance with wildlife handling protocols.

The DENR reminded the public that the Philippine Serpent Eagle is a protected species under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, and urged citizens to report any wildlife rescues or sightings to help strengthen conservation efforts.