To commemorate the yearly observance of Philippine Eagle Week (PEW), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO) Surigao del Norte headed by OIC PENR Officer Alejandra B. Boiser, together with Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Tubod, successfully conducted the week-long celebration through the Communication, Education and Public Awareness (CEPA) campaign cum “Dalaw Turo” on June 7-10, 2022 in different areas/schools in the indigenous peoples (IP) communities in the Municipality of Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte.
Among the schools that PENRO Surigao del Norte was able to visit were Palilihan Elementary School, Tiltilan Elementary School, Indigenous People’s Community, and Lasicam-Perral National High School.
Julie Anne B. Arreza and Forester II Salven C. Espina of PENRO Surigao del Norte discussed the importance of the Philippine Eagle, its physical features, diet, reproduction, main threats, life expectancy, and conservation programs for the Philippine Eagle to create awareness especially on the young generation to take action and do their part in conserving and protecting the Philippine Eagle, which is now critically endangered.
After a series of presentations, students played games such as the Puzzle Eagle, wherein they were grouped into threes to complete the puzzle of the Philippine Eagle. Tokens such as tote bags, dry bags, tumblers, and t-shirts were also given to students who answered the questions during the lectures. All students were given school supplies such as notebook, pencil, ballpen, and crayons.
The week-long activity was participated by a total of 180 students.
This year’s theme is “Kapayapaan at Kalayaan: Ang Agila at Mamamayan, May Kaugnayan”, wherein we are reminded of our responsibility as caretakers of the land and the importance of the Philippine Eagle and other wildlife. As responsible citizens, we need to usher in a new era of commitment to save our threatened fauna especially our national bird. We need to stand up and chart our path that will lead us to the next level of truly understanding the plight of our national bird.
(Source: DENR PENRO Surigao del Norte)