Photo source: Pexels  The Philippines is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, home to about 52,000 species, half of which are found nowhere else in the world. Sadly, nearly 2,000 of these species are at risk, with some critically endangered. Luzon alone hosts numerous unique mammals, including various species of bats and rats.

These animals face mounting threats. Deforestation, urban sprawl, and destructive farming practices are destroying their habitats. If we do not act quickly, we risk losing not only these species, but also the vital services they provide, such as clean air and water.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) calls for collective action to protect the Philippines' endangered species and their habitats. On December 13, the DENR, along with private and non-governmental organizations, gathered at Lanson Place in the SM Mall of Asia Complex to recognize the efforts of conservation groups such as the Philippine Eagle Conservation Program Foundation, Forest Foundation Philippines, and the Zoological Society of London-Philippines, as well as private sector partners like SM, BDO, and Kultura.

DENR, SM Group unite to protect Philippine biodiversity. In the photo are (L-R): SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Jonjon San Agustin, BDO 1st Vice President and Head of Strategic Marketing Ivan Pua, Forest Foundation Philippines Executive Director Jose Andres Canivel, World Wide Fund for Nature - Philippines Head of Resource Generation Cloda Urquico, Zoological Society of London - Philippines Country Director Edwina Garchitorena, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia "Toni" Yulo Loyzaga, SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Special Events and Tenant Marketing Hanna Carinna Sy, D'Aboville Foundation President Hubert D'Aboville, D'Aboville Foundation Program Director Emmanuel Schutz, Philippine Eagle Foundation Conservation Education and Development Manager Khizia Madrona, and SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Marketing Grace Magno. Photo source: SM Supermalls 

As DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga explained, "Without these species, ecosystems would struggle to sustain their biodiversity and the services that are vital for both wildlife and people. The challenges of habitat loss, climate change, illegal trade, and pollution remain significant. However, through the collective efforts of government, the private sector, local communities, NGOs, the scientific community, and the public, we may make a difference."

Among the species in urgent need of protection are:

- The Philippine Eagle: Fewer than 400 pairs remain, facing threats from habitat loss and illegal hunting. This majestic bird plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems.

- The Tamaraw: A buffalo native to Mindoro, the Tamaraw's population has dropped from 10,000 in 1896 to just over 500 today. It is essential in maintaining grasslands by controlling vegetation.

- The Dugong: This marine mammal helps maintain seagrass ecosystems that support coral reefs and marine biodiversity. Habitat destruction and hunting have caused its numbers to dwindle.

- The Philippine Cockatoo: As only 650-1,120 are left, this bird faces threats from illegal trapping and habitat loss. It helps regenerate forests by dispersing seeds.

- Marine Turtles: Species like the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle face threats from egg collection, pollution, and habitat loss. These turtles play a key role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds and coral reefs.

- The Palawan Pangolin: Known for its scales, this small mammal is heavily hunted for both meat and scales. Poaching and habitat destruction have caused its population to decline. The Palawan Pangolin helps control insect populations, particularly ants and termites.

Photo source: SM Supermalls 

Photo source: SM Supermalls 

Photo source: SM Supermalls

These species are integral to the health of their ecosystems. Without them, forests, seagrasses, and coral reefs would struggle to support biodiversity. Protecting them means safeguarding the environment for future generations.

The DENR is already leading efforts to conserve biodiversity in the Philippines. In addition to the 124 protected areas currently in place, there are plans to update 250 key biodiversity areas. These efforts include creating protected zones, community-conserved spaces, and critical habitats to support endangered species. The DENR is also working to provide livelihood opportunities for communities living near these habitats.

"As we work to conserve these species, we must also manage the ecosystem services they provide. These species are key to maintaining the health of our forests and marine environments," said Atty. Jose Andres Canivel, Executive Director of Forest Foundation Philippines.

To help, the Save From Extinction campaign, launched by SM Supermalls, BDO, and Kultura, is raising awareness and funding conservation efforts. "Since launching the Save From Extinction campaign in October, we have united in our commitment to protect these iconic endangered species. These creatures are not only vital to our ecosystems but are also cornerstones of our national identity," said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

Through the campaign, SM is offering a collection of t-shirts and tote bags featuring the endangered animals, with proceeds supporting conservation. "At SM, we believe in the power of collective action. Every small contribution helps us protect the Philippines' biodiversity for the future," Tan added.

How you may get involved:

- Donate: Contributions may be made at any of the 4,280 BDO ATMs across the Philippines, supporting wildlife protection through Forest Foundation Philippines.

- Buy merchandise: Purchase t-shirts and tote bags featuring the endangered species from Kultura, with all proceeds going to conservation efforts.

Visit the Save From Extinction kiosks at SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM Aura, and SM Makati until December 31, 2024. Photo source: SM Supermalls 

"As we think about the future, especially for the next generation, we understand that protecting these species also protects us all," said Grace Magno, Vice President for Corporate Marketing at SM Supermalls.