We at the PEF express our deep condolences to the family of Dr. Perry Ong.
Dr. Perry, as we fondly call him, was a longtime champion of the cause. He was chair of our board's Scientific Committee that steered the Foundation's directions through science-based policies. As one of our leaders, Dr. Perry was our guardian of scientific research.
Even prior to being trustee, he engaged the PEF as a collaborator to the Philippine Biodiversity Conservation priority setting program in Mindanao. The program identified key conservation areas with the island's stakeholders. He was also the PEF's consultant to the Eastern Mindanao Biodiversity Conservation Program from 2004 to 2008.
He led eagle conservation efforts in Leyte and Samar through forging a partnership between DENR, UP Diliman – Institute of Biology, and the PEF. Much of what we know now about the Philippine eagle in Leyte is because of Dr. Perry’s contributions. He spearheaded the genetic studies of Philippine eagles to investigate genetic differences between eagle sub populations in Luzon, Leyte, Samar, and Mindanao.
Dr. Perry also believed in the importance of engaging the youth in the conservation mission. As Dean of College of Science and PEF trustee, he brought the Agila Campaign in UP Diliman to inspire students in his college to learn more about wildlife conservation.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of one of our revered conservation champions. Dr. Perry will always be in our hearts as we carry on in this mission.