By: Dr. Pieter Pelser Calamus vinosus, a Critically Endangered rattan rediscovered in Mt. Candalaga, Davao de Oro. A plant photography expedition in the forests of the Mt. Candalaga Range in Maragusan, Davao de Oro, has led to the remarkable rediscovery of one of the Philippines' rarest and most enigmatic palms, Calamus vinosus, a critically endangered rattan species that had not been documented in the wild for more than a century. From 26 November to 4 December 2024, Dr. Jul

Where Sacred Forests Shelter an Endangered Eagle In the misty forests of Mt. Candalaga in Maragusan, a young Philippine Eagle now carries a small transmitter. By following his movements, scientists hope to learn more about how young eagles survive—and how the mountain can be protected for the future. Before sunrise, Mt. Candalaga is often covered in clouds. Mist moves across the forested slopes and deep valleys. Tall trees rise above the forest. Somewhere beyond the ridge, a

By Tristan Luap P. Senarillos Deep inside the forests of Burauen, Leyte, a quiet discovery has given new hope for one of the Philippines' rarest birds of prey. For the first time ever, an active nest of the South Philippine Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus pinskeri) has been documented on Leyte Island. Even more remarkable, researchers were able to follow the nesting pair from the moment they began building their nest until their chick successfully took its very first flight. For conserv