Screenings of ‘Bird of Prey’ held last week

In compliance with Presidential Proclamation No. 79, signed in 1999 by then-President Joseph Estrada, the annual Philippine Eagle Week, which began on June 4, comes to a close today, June 10. According to the proclamation, “There is a need to instill into the minds of the Filipino people the importance of the Philippine Eagle as a biological indicator of the forest ecosystems, as a national symbol, and as a unique heritage.”
As part of this year’s commemoration, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) loaned two Philippine eagles to the Wildlife Reserves Singapore for conservation breeding, wherein the animals are maintained in a controlled environment.
According to a social media post by the DENR, the move will “heighten awareness and appreciation by the international community on this beautiful, magnificent raptor.”
Throughout the week, events have been hosted across the country to honor the country’s “national bird.”
Among the activities included a film screening of “Bird of Prey” at the UP Town Center in the Diliman section of Quezon City. The film first premiered last April and recounts the Philippine eagle’s survival story. According to the Philippine Eagle Foundation, “The film aims to inspire and mobilize people from all walks of life to do more for the Philippine Eagle, its habitat, and the people who share its forest home.”
Seperate film screenings were also held at the SM Downtown Premier in Cagayan de Oro City, Robinsons Place in Butuan City, and SM Lanang Premier.
Other events included an art workshops at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City, along with similar workshops for indigenous populations in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon; Butuan City; and Davao City./WDJ