The Philippine Eagle named “Sawaga-Dalwangan,” which was saved earlier this month, passed away on Saturday, July 18, during her treatment at the Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City, the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) reported.
In an official announcement, the organization expressed grief over the loss and noted that the raptor had previously displayed hopeful signs of recuperation following her rescue.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Philippine Eagle Sawaga-Dalwangan while undergoing rehabilitation at the Philippine Eagle Center,” the PEF said in a statement.
“After her rescue, she showed real signs of improvement. She became stronger and more alert, ate on her own, and responded well to treatment. These observations were the basis of our earlier recovery updates,” the foundation added.
Despite the initial turn for the better, the PEF explained that the eagle suffered a sudden medical crisis and succumbed to it. Medical experts have already finished a necropsy, and histopathological tests are underway to establish the precise cause of death.
The foundation also voiced its gratitude to the individuals and groups involved in the bird’s rescue and medical care.
“We are deeply grateful to the Daraghuyan community, rescuer Marven Linoy and his companions, DENR, the Malaybalay City Government, the Provincial Zoo, the veterinary teams, and all partners who helped rescue and care for her,“ it added.
A local farmer initially found Sawaga-Dalwangan on July 3 near the Cabanbangan-Sawaga River located in Barangay Dalwangan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. At the time, the critically ill eagle was extremely weak, dehydrated, and suffering from a maggot-infested wound.
According to the PEF, the bird initially showed positive responses to her medical regimen and remained under strict monitoring until her condition steadied, allowing her transfer to the center’s isolation and rehabilitation unit on July 16.
However, veterinary examinations subsequently uncovered two metal pellets lodged inside the eagle—specifically in a wing and the left thigh—indicating that the bird had been shot.
In light of the grim discovery, the Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects Service of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) emphasized the critical need to halt illegal poaching and bolster local conservation programs.
“The discovery of gun pellets underscores the urgent need to stop illegal shooting and strengthen community-based conservation. Protecting the Philippine eagle means protecting our nation’s natural heritage,” the agency said.