The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office of Bulacan, in collaboration with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices of Baliwag and Guiguinto, conducted the annual Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) in Malolos City and Paombong. The census aims to monitor the population of waterbirds and assess the ecological conditions of wetlands in the province.
The AWC is part of the International Waterbird Census, a global monitoring initiative led by Wetlands International. This long-term effort provides critical data on waterbird populations, which serve as indicators of wetland health and biodiversity. The findings contribute to conservation policies and habitat management strategies at both national and international levels.
Among the notable species recorded during the census were the Chinese Egret, also known as Swinhoe’s Egret, the Far Eastern Curlew, Nordmann’s Greenshank, and the Great Knot. These species, some of which are classified as threatened or near-threatened, highlight the importance of wetland conservation efforts in the region.
The activity was conducted with the support of the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, Bulacan State University, and local government units. Their participation underscores the collaborative approach necessary to protect migratory birds and maintain the ecological balance of Bulacan’s wetlands.