ILOILO – In observance of World Migratory Bird Day on May 10, the Iloilo Provincial Government has issued an urgent appeal to the public to stop the illegal capture and disturbance of migratory birds, emphasizing their vital role in biodiversity and ecosystem health.
The Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) warned that wetlands across Iloilo, which serve as seasonal habitats for migratory birds, are increasingly at risk due to human activities such as hunting and habitat disruption.
“These birds pose no harm to our lives and livelihoods. The best way to protect them is to let them be,” said PGENRO senior environmental management specialist Mitzi Peñaflorida in a statement. “They are only temporary visitors—resting, nesting, and feeding here before returning to their natural habitats.”
PGENRO data show that migratory bird populations peak during the cold months, when they escape winter conditions in other parts of the globe by flying into Iloilo’s wetlands. They then return to their home ranges during the summer when they can no longer tolerate the local heat.
Peñaflorida stressed that constant reminders are issued to local communities: “Protect them. Don’t hunt or chase them away. Leave their niche undisturbed.”
Despite public concerns that migratory birds may carry infectious diseases like the avian influenza virus, Peñaflorida clarified that there have been no recorded human infections linked to migratory birds in Iloilo.
She noted that the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources regularly conduct monitoring and testing of various bird species.
The Bureau of Animal Industry recently reaffirmed that Region 6 remains bird flu-free.
Among the migratory bird species seen across the province’s wetlands are the black-winged stilt, common sandpiper, and various egrets — including the little, intermediate, and great egret.
In areas like Barotac Nuevo, Dumangas, Guimbal, and parts of Northern Iloilo, other sightings include the Purple Heron, Javan Pond Heron, Grey Heron, Whiskered Tern, Common Moorhen, and the endemic Philippine Duck.
This year, PGENRO has not scheduled any special event for World Migratory Bird Day, but it will launch biodiversity and ocean conservation activities in San Dionisio from May 20 to 23. These include mangrove planting, clean-up drives, and educational caravans to promote environmental stewardship, especially the protection of migratory birds.
“These birds are part of a larger ecological picture,” said Peñaflorida. “Their safe passage through our wetlands reflects how well we are protecting our environment.”/PN
