ILOILO — The Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) has issued a warning against the capture, handling, or consumption of migratory birds, emphasizing both public health risks and ecological consequences ahead of the May 8 observance of World Migratory Bird Day.
The advisory comes as sightings of rare and seasonal bird species increase in the province’s wetlands, prompting authorities to urge residents to leave these birds undisturbed.
“Kun makakita kita migratory birds, indi pagtandugon. Wala kita kabalo basi carrier sila sang mga sakit. Pabay-an lang naton sila,” said Forester Mitzi Peñaflorida, head of PGENRO’s Environmental Programs and Management Services Division.
Peñaflorida stressed that while there have been no recorded cases of diseases transmitted by migratory birds in the province, the uncertainty surrounding potential carriers of bacteria or viruses necessitates precaution.
Among the commonly observed migratory species in Iloilo’s wetlands — particularly in the towns of Barotac Nuevo, Zarraga, Dumangas, Guimbal, and northern Iloilo — are egrets, wild ducks, black-winged stilts, common sandpipers, and Javan pond herons.
Other species spotted include the purple heron (Ardea purpurea), grey heron (Ardea cinerea), whiskered tern (Chlidonias hybridus), and the Philippine duck (Anas luzonica).
These birds typically arrive seasonally, especially during colder months in other countries, when snow limits their food supply.
“Gakadto sila diri sa aton kay sa lugar nila may snow, wala sila pagkaon. Sa change sang weather, amo na nga ga-migrate sila,” Peñaflorida explained.
Beyond health concerns, PGENRO underscored that migratory birds play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, particularly in seed dispersal that supports the growth of fruit-bearing trees.
Authorities also warned that these birds are not safe for human consumption.
The agency is set to conduct monitoring activities in key wetland areas this May as part of the Month of the Ocean celebration, which includes World Migratory Bird Day and Biodiversity Week.
PGENRO said the monitoring aims to track the presence and diversity of migratory species in Iloilo, reinforcing conservation efforts and public awareness on the importance of protecting wildlife habitats./PN
