In this time of crisis when we confront the consequences of a global pandemic, wildlife and forest protection is back-burnered. Such is the case despite being proven over time that increasing human contact with wildlife, forest encroachment, and destruction of natural habitats increase the risk of spreading zoonotic diseases like COVID-19.

 

We, at the PEF, urge for support to efforts toward long term preventive measures as a way forward from this pandemic. With the Philippine eagle as our flagship for conservation, we underscore the critical need to invest in actions that not only address the economic impact of COVID-19, but also support the protection of the eagle, its habitat, and our biodiversity and in minimizing the risk of future pandemics.