A juvenile Philippine serpent eagle was rescued from a rubber plantation in Sitio Lapan, Barangay Perez, Kidapawan City.

A resident found the bird at around 4 p.m. on August 4, 2026, and turned it over immediately to a barangay official who coordinated with authorities for its safe rescue.

The next day, the Protected Area Management Office–Mt. Apo Natural Park (PAMO-MANP) retrieved the eagle and brought it to the City Veterinary Office for a medical examination.

Based on examination, no serious physical injuries were found, but the bird was observed to be weak, prompting authorities to place it under close monitoring and rehabilitation.

Following the initial assessment, the eagle was transferred to the Temporary Wildlife Rescue Shelter of PENRO Cotabato in Barangay Amas, where it will continue to receive care and monitoring until it fully recovers and is deemed ready for possible release back into its natural habitat.

Authorities reminded the public that keeping wildlife as pets is prohibited under the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147) unless the proper permit has been secured.

The public is also urged to immediately report to the nearest DENR office or local government any wildlife found wandering, injured, or outside its natural habitat to ensure proper rescue and care.