Annual Waterbird Census Begins

DENR-CENRO Bago City conducted its Annual Waterbird Census for Calendar Year 2025 as part of its ongoing efforts to monitor and conserve waterbird populations in the province.

This activity was spearheaded by CENRO Rosievel Dimatulac and supported by CENRO CDS Chief Rosendo Lopez and Forest Technician II Ariel Marcasote Jr.

The census will take place across key sites within the jurisdiction of CENRO Bago, covering significant wetlands and bird habitats in the following locations:
• Brgy. Sampinit (Bago City)
• Brgy. Tapong (Pulupandan)
• Central Tabao (Valladolid)
• Brgy. Tibsoc (San Enrique)
• Brgy. Nayon (San Enrique)
• Brgy. San Juan (Pontevedra)

The census aims to gather accurate data on the population, distribution, and diversity of waterbird species in the area.

This census is a collaborative effort supported by several organizations and key personnel from PENRO Negros Occidental, led by SVEMS and OPCEN Head Ma. Gina Consolacion Gerangaya, Chief CDS Rosie Pablico, Philippine Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PhiBio), represented by Executive Director Lisa Paguntalan-Marte and Godfrey Jakosalem, Sir Reymund Carlos from the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO), personnel from PENRO Negros Occidental, Northern Negros Natural Park (NNNP), Local Government Units, and other community stakeholders.

The selected barangays are known for their wetlands and aquatic ecosystems, which serve as critical habitats for migratory and resident waterbird species. These areas are part of the Negros Occidental Coastal Wetlands Conservation Area (NOCWCA), a globally recognized Ramsar Site.* (PR)