BALER, Aurora — A Philippine Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus philippensis) was rescued on Saturday, February 7, 2026, after it was found weakened in a rice field in Barangay Suklayin, Baler.
The raptor was discovered around noon by farmer Cesar Santiago, who witnessed the eagle diving toward a chicken. According to Santiago, the bird appeared to have struck its head against a tree during the swift dive, leaving it weakened and allowing him to catch it by hand.
Santiago brought the eagle to his home and secured it in a cage before promptly reporting the incident to the Baler Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO).
MENRO Chief Maria Liza V. Costa immediately dispatched staff member Rabbi Jan Angara to respond. The eagle was later turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper assessment and care.
The DENR said the bird will be brought to a veterinary facility on Monday, February 9, for examination. Once confirmed to be healthy and strong enough, the Philippine Hawk-Eagle will be released back into the wild.
The eagle is currently under the custody and care of the DENR as authorities ensure its recovery and eventual return to its natural habitat. (Jason de Asis)