‘Mabuhay’ the eaglet now a month old

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Mabuhay, the first offspring of Pag-asa, the first Philippine Eagle bred in captivity, and 29-year-old female eagle Kalinawan, is now a month old.

Mabuhay, who is kept at the Malagos Eagle Center here, was reported to be in good condition and black patches started growing on its back.

Dennis Salvador, executive director of the Philippine Eagle Foundation, a non-profit organization running the eagle center, said several activities were held yesterday to mark Mabuhay’s first month.

Salvador said Mabuhay’s ninang (godmother) gave away Philippine Eagle stuffed toys to at least three center visitors who celebrated their birthdays yesterday and named them Mabuhay’s “hatchmates.”

The sponsor earlier gave P168,888.88 for the  bird’s upkeep at the eagle center.

Salvador told The STAR that Kalinawan is among the seven eagles at the Malagos Center that have been offered for adoption. At least P150,000 is required for sponsoring an eagle.

There are less than 1,000 Philippine Eagles nationwide, including the 34 at the Malagos Center.