Forest fire threatens Philippine eagle nests

A forest fire in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte, this month has razed a Philippine Eagle nest, the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) said. The foundation warned that the fire poses a "clear and present danger" to the country's national bird, which is critically endangered. The nest had been used in December 2025. Forest fires are a serious threat to the habitat of the Philippine Eagle, and the destruction of nests, especially during the breeding season, can be a major obstacle to population recovery. The PEF is calling for stronger fire prevention and suppression efforts, as well as habitat conservation initiatives. The Philippine Eagle, with its majestic appearance and crucial role in the ecosystem, is considered a symbol of the Philippines. However, its population has drastically declined due to habitat destruction and poaching, leading to its classification as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This recent fire has once again highlighted the urgent need for measures to protect this precious bird species.