Eagle Sanctuary under threat

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — The natural habitat of the Philippine eagle at the base of Kitanglad mountain ranges in Bukidnon is under threat from encroaching lowland farmers, tribal leaders reported yesterday.

Tribal leaders said farmers in the Kubayan portion of the mountain range are creeping in to the forest sanctuary of the Philippine eagle, which is known as "Kalumbata" among tribal folk in the area.

The plight of the Philippine eagle has also triggered interest among political candidates here.

Former governor Ernesto Tabios for his part pointed out that Mount Kitanglad, declared a protected area by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, is an ideal ecotourism destination.

Tabios, running as an independent in the second congressional district of the province, is batting for the preservation of the Kalumbata as an election campaign promise.

Gov. Jose Zubiri, his rival Rep. Nereus Acosta and even his son, Bukidnon Rep. Jose Miguel Zubiri now running for the Senate under the administration Team Unity, have made environmental concern as one of their political agenda in campaign sorties.

"The development of the area into a Philippine eagle watching destination could be a source for revenue for the local governments of Malaybalay City and Impasugong town," Tabios said.

Several foreigners, including scientists and naturalists, are frequently seen in the area watching the eagle from a distance with powerful telescopes.

Tribal leaders in Minlanao village in Impasugong town area in Mount Saldab reported two pairs of Philippine eagles building their nests near their village.

Datu Pasco claimed a new pair of the rare birds which were seen flying over the area earlier this year could have been driven away to the nearby Kitanglad range by vegetable farmers using mechanized farming at the foot of the mountain.

"The pair has began building their nests and we are happy with their presence," Pasco said.

He said the tribal folk have organized a group that will provide security for their unexpected guests.

The Kalumbata is a sacred creature as far as the Higa-onon tribe is concerned, as it is said to resemble a huge stone statue found in one of the mountain cliffs.