FLY HIGH, SAWAGA-DALWANGAN: RESCUED PHILIPPINE EAGLE DIES DESPITE SIGNS OF RECOVERY

DAVAO CITY — The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) on Saturday, July 18, 2026, announced the death of Sawaga-Dalwangan, the critically endangered Philippine Eagle that had been undergoing rehabilitation following a dramatic rescue in Bukidnon.

According to the PEF, the eagle died after suffering a sudden medical crisis at the Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City, despite earlier signs that its condition was improving.

Sawaga-Dalwangan was rescued from a mountainous area in Bukidnon after it was reportedly attacked by a troop of monkeys. Following the rescue, the bird was brought to the Philippine Eagle Center, where veterinarians and wildlife specialists provided intensive medical care.

In a statement, the foundation said the eagle initially responded positively to treatment.

“After her rescue, she showed real signs of improvement. She became stronger and more alert, ate on her own, and responded well to treatment. These observations were the basis of our earlier recovery updates,” the PEF said.

However, the foundation said the eagle unexpectedly suffered a severe medical emergency and could not be revived despite efforts by the veterinary team.

The PEF extended its gratitude to everyone involved in the rescue and rehabilitation, including the Daraghuyan community, rescuer Marven Linoy and his companions, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Malaybalay City Government, the Provincial Zoo, veterinary professionals, and partner organizations.

The foundation also acknowledged the public support that followed the eagle's rescue and rehabilitation journey.

“We share the grief of everyone who followed her journey and hoped for her recovery. Sawaga-Dalwangan’s rescue was not in vain, and the lessons from her case will help improve the care of other Philippine Eagles,” the foundation said.

The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), the country's national bird, is listed as Critically Endangered, with habitat loss, hunting, and other human-related threats continuing to endanger its survival in the wild.

While Sawaga-Dalwangan's recovery ultimately ended in tragedy, conservationists said the rescue effort provided valuable medical and scientific insights that could help improve the rehabilitation and conservation of Philippine Eagles in the future.