A Nation’s Hope Fades: Philippine eagle passes away in rehabilitation

Mikaela Ariar, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
July 20, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Philippine Eagle Foundation

PHILIPPINES – Eagle Sawaga-Dalwangan, an endangered raptor saved in Bukidnon on July 3, passed away on July 18 while undergoing rehabilitation at the Philippine Eagle Center.

The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) revealed the bird’s death with deep sadness, stating that at first, she had displayed promising signs of recovery after becoming stronger and responding to treatment.

However, the eagle later endured a sudden medical crisis despite its progress and could not be resuscitated. A necropsy was conducted while further medical evaluations are ongoing to establish the cause of death.

PEF expressed gratitude to the Daraghuyan society, rescuer Marven Linoy, government institutions, veterinary teams, and other people who helped care for the eagle.

The raptor was discovered in Barangay Dalwangan, Malaybalay City, before being brought to the Philippine Eagle Center for rehabilitation.

PEF stated Sawaga-Dalwangan’s rescue was not in vain, adding that the lessons learned from her situation will help improve the care and conservation of other Philippine Eagles.