PROTECTING THE ENDEMIC PHILIPPINE DUCK

PROTECTING THE ENDEMIC PHILIPPINE DUCK Yes, there is an endemic species of duck in the Philippines, and we must protect it. The Philippine Duck (Anas luzonica) is a unique species found only in our country. But why must we protect it? First and foremost, it is ours. The Philippine Duck is part of our national heritage and patrimony. It symbolizes the rich biodiversity of our islands and is an integral part of our identity as Filipinos. Second, it plays a crucial role in our ecological balance. The Philippine Duck is part of our wetland ecosystems, helping to control insect populations and contributing to the overall health of our environment. Its decline could disrupt the delicate balance of nature. In some areas of Luzon, the loss of duck populations may have already affected local livelihoods. The decrease in ducks may be linked to the decline of shellfish and other aquatic organisms, possibly due to pollution and climate change. Everything in our ecosystem is connected. The loss of one species, such as the native suso (apple snails), can impact another, like the Philippine Duck. Ducks require calcium to lay strong eggs, and a decline in calcium-rich food sources could weaken their eggs, potentially affecting industries like balut production. Balut, a popular street food in the Philippines, is a fertilized duck egg boiled and eaten from the shell. A decline in the native duck population could mean fewer eggs, impacting livelihoods tied to this traditional delicacy. While the Philippine Duck is not yet classified as endangered, it is already considered vulnerable. Must we wait until it reaches endangered status before acting on it? Several threats contribute to its decline, including: · Habitat loss and degradation · Hunting and poaching · Pollution · Climate change · Human disturbance We have laws against hunting and poaching, but how strictly are they enforced? Have you ever heard of anyone being fined or jailed for illegally hunting ducks? And what about pollution? How can we effectively control plastic waste and other pollutants that harm our wetlands, lakes, and rivers? There are ways we can protect the Philippine Duck. Developers could be required to maintain ponds and wetlands to provide safe habitats for these birds. While a postage stamp featuring the Philippine Duck already exists, why not include it on our paper currency as well? Such a move could raise awareness about its importance. The popularity of fried itik (duck) could also pose a threat to the Philippine Duck’s survival. Should we consider incentives for farmers to propagate and protect these ducks rather than hunting them? Identifying local government units (LGUs) where native ducks are present could be a step toward requiring conservation programs at the municipal level. Does the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) have a specific conservation program for the Philippine Duck? If not, perhaps it is time to create one. Protecting our native species is not just about preserving wildlife—it is about securing our environment, livelihoods, and cultural heritage for future generations. Let us act before it is too late. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 04-18-2025