CAPIZ — In a bid to strengthen biodiversity monitoring and wetland conservation, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Capiz (DENR–Capiz), in coordination with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)–Mambusao, conducted the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) from January 6 to 9, 2026.
The activity forms part of an annual regional and international initiative aimed at monitoring waterbird populations and promoting the conservation of critical wetland habitats.
During the initial phase of the census, survey teams covered seven of the 13 officially recognized wetland sites in Capiz province.
Surveyed areas included the Palina River, encompassing Barangays Cagay, Barra, and Talon, as well as Balijuagan in Roxas City. Other sites were Barangays Cudian and Agustin Navarra in Ivisan, and Barangays Poblacion, Dapdapan, and Lonoy in Sapian.
DENR–Capiz said these sites feature diverse ecological characteristics that are vital to sustaining local wildlife and maintaining ecological balance.
The remaining six wetland sites are scheduled for assessment from January 12 to 15, 2026. These include the Roxas City Airport area and Barangay Dulangan in Pilar, as well as Barangays Intongcan, Agbanog, Bantigue, and Gabuc in Pontevedra.
During the four-day survey period, teams recorded a total of 16,719 individual waterbirds representing 40 species.
The data gathered will be submitted to national and international biodiversity databases and is expected to support science-based conservation planning and policy formulation.
“Our commitment to monitoring and protecting natural resources is essential to the sustainability of our ecosystems,” a DENR–Capiz spokesperson said. “The data collected during the Asian Waterbird Census will help local stakeholders and policymakers craft effective conservation strategies and safeguard our wetlands for future generations.”
DENR–Capiz added that the census reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and habitat protection, highlighting the importance of collaboration among local government units, environmental agencies, and community partners.
Officials said the information gathered from the census is expected to significantly influence future conservation programs and ensure the long-term protection of wetland ecosystems where waterbirds thrive.
As awareness of the ecological value of wetlands and waterbird populations grows, DENR–Capiz stressed the need for sustained and coordinated conservation efforts to preserve Capiz’s rich biodiversity./PN
