According to Irick Francisco, PEF’s communications officer, the amount will be raised through crowdfunding efforts involving the City Government of Davao, private sector partners, national agencies, and local communities.
Since its soft launch in 2023, 13 breeding Philippine Eagles, comprising 7 males and 6 females, have already been transferred to the PECBS under a usufruct agreement between the City Government and PEF.
“It takes massive support to build and maintain a facility like this. It’s not cheap. We need more enclosures and costly equipment to ensure the eagles’ welfare,” Francisco said during the Business Matters press forum held at Hukad, Ayala Malls Abreeza.
Each eagle requires a dedicated cage, and natural breeding pairs must also be housed together. Francisco estimated that each cage costs between P5 million and P8 million.
The 13.46-hectare sanctuary sits within the city-owned 105-hectare Eden Tourism Reservation Area. Of the total sanctuary area, 8.16 hectares serve as a forested buffer zone, while 5.30 hectares are designated as the core breeding facility. The site is strategically located near the strict protection zone of Mt. Apo Natural Park, the country's highest peak.
Francisco stated that work is ongoing to complete the facility, with the ultimate goal of transferring all breeding eagles to PECBS. Once operational at full capacity, the sanctuary is expected to boost eagle reproduction and support eventual releases into the wild to help increase the population of the critically endangered species.
Currently, 33 eagles, including breeders and non-breeding individuals are housed at the Philippine Eagle Center in Malagos, alongside other endemic wildlife. These represent part of the estimated 392 remaining pairs of Philippine Eagles in the wild.
Looking ahead, PEF envisions PECBS as more than just a sanctuary. “We aim to transform it into a conservation and education hub, not just a tourist destination,” Francisco said, emphasizing the importance of wildlife education in fostering public appreciation and protection of the country’s natural heritage.
Irick Francisco, communications officer, Philippine Eagle Foundation. Beside him is Maria Victoria Evangelista, president of the Sta. Cruz Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. , and CEO Bioskin Philippines Davao
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