PHILIPPINES ANIMAL EXTINCTION

A Research Paper Presented to

Engr. Leyma L. Cero
Cavite State University
Indang, Cavite

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements in

AENG24: Environmental Engineering

ROACELENE P. CABANELA

BS COMPUTER ENGINEERING/ CPE3-1

JANUARY 20, 2014

 INTRODUCTION
From a whole biosphere (which is considered the earth) it is
divided into the levels of organization wherein individuals (animals,
man, and species within the specific family) are the bottom line level.
Photo courtesy: http://buffonescience9.wikispaces.com/UNIT+6+-
+Ecology

Being the last level of organization it is considered the inner composition to create the
whole system. The totality of all life forms in a specific area is called a Biodiversity. Animals as
a part of the biotic component (living organisms) bound to live in the biodiversity that is
composed of wildlife.
“Fauna and Flora” ring a bell with these words? On the wildlife, these two composed the
system. Wildlife is the composition of plants, animals, microorganisms and other species present
in the areas that is wild and humans are not present. From a tiny microorganism up to the largest
species ever living in this biosphere it is great to be born together, interact and study them. Fauna
means animal life while Flora is plants.
Studying animals down to a specific location which is Philippines composed of 7,107
islands covering a total area of 300,000 sq km. The main island groups are Luzon, Visayas and,
Mindanao with Manila as the capital city.
 From Chapter 1.0 Overview of Status, Trends and Threats a part of government
document which is ASSESSING PROGRESS TOWARDS THE 2010 BIODIVERSITY TARGET:
The 4th National Report to the Convention on
Biological Diversity Republic of the Philippines
(2009):
“The Philippines has vast
natural resources that are a
source of food, water, shelter and
livelihood for its rapidly growing
population. It is one of 18 mega-
biodiversity countries
(containing 2/3 of the earth’s
biodiversity and about 70-80% of
the world’s plant and animal
species) due to its geographical
isolation, diverse habitats and
high rates of endemism. The
Philippines is 5th in the number
of plant species and maintains 5% of the world’s flora. Species endemism is very
high covering at least 25 genera of plants and 49% of terrestrial wildlife. It also
ranks 4th in bird endemism. In terms of fishes, there are about 3,214 (incomplete
list) with about 121 endemic and 76 threatened species.”
The world’s most remarkable places are also the most threatened. These are the hotspots:
the richest and most threatened reservoirs of plants and animal life on Earth. Philippines also one
of the world’s hotspots- with a large number of endangered and threatened species- thus making
it one of the top global conservation priority areas. Extinction is the gravest aspect of
biodiversity crisis. Extinction is the process wherein endangered and threatened species die and
no other life forms in their kind left in this world. “Endangered species are like fire alarms. They
tell us about problems in our home we call Earth. If we listen to their alarm calls, they could help
us improve our lives and the health of our planet.”
 Philippines as a country founded government agencies that will specially handle
programs, laws, protection, securities and prevention for the animals in the wildlife (like
endangered species). As the world changes due to development and innovation, more species
will encounter the extinction. Though it cannot stop but eventually it must slow down to prevent
the destruction of our diversity.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE 1
INTRODUCTION 2-3
TABLE OF CONTENTS 4-5
TERMINOLOGIES 6-8
EXTINCTION 9
I. Types of Extinction 10-13
A. Functional Extinction 10
B. Co- extinction 11
C. Mass Extinction 12-13
D. Planned Extinction 13
II. Levels of Species Extinction 14
A. Local Extinction 14
B. Ecological Extinction 14
C. Biological Extinction 14
III. Causes 14-22
A. Natural Causes 14-19
1. Climatic Heating and Cooling 14-15
2. Oxygen Depletion 15-16
3. Changes in Sea Levels or Currents 16
4. Asteroids or Comet Impacts 16-17
5. Cosmic Radiation 17
6. Acid rain 17-18
7. Disease and Epidemics 18
8. Spread of Invasive Species 18-19
9. Volcanic Activity 19
B. Man-made Causes 20-22
1. Habitat Alteration20
2. Habitat Fragmentation 20
3. Habitat Loss 21
4. Over-harvesting or Hunting 21
 5. Pollution 21-22
IV. Effects 22
V. Prevention 23
PHILIPPINES ENDANGERED SPECIES 23-35
A. Philippine Freshwater and Marine Fishes 24
B. Philippine Amphibians and Reptiles 25-26
C. Philippine Birds 27-30
D. Philippine Marine Mammals 31-32
E. Philippine Land Mammals 33-35
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES 35-36
PHILIPPINES LAWS AND ACTS 37
News, Articles, Documentaries 38-39
A. Philippine Freshwater and Marine Fishes 38
B. Philippine Amphibians and Reptiles 38
C. Philippine Birds 38-39
D. Philippine Marine Mammals 39
E. Philippine Land Mammals 39
CONCLUSION 40
RECOMMENDATION 40
REFERENCES 41-43
TERMINOLOGIES
Acid Rain. It is the acid precipitation in the form of rain (Merriam- Webster Dictionary,
2011).
Asteroids. It is any of the small rocky celestial bodies found especially between the
orbits of Mars and Jupiter (Merriam- Webster Dictionary, 2011).
Biodiversity. Bio means life while diversity which is the condition of being different to
one another and when it is combined biological diversity in an environment as indicated by
numbers of different species of plants and animals (Merriam- Webster Dictionary, 2011).
Class. A set, collection, group, or configuration containing members regarded as having
certain attributes or traits in common; a kind or category (The American Heritage® Dictionary of
the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company, 2009).
Climate. It is the general or average weather conditions of a certain region, including
temperature, rainfall, and wind. On Earth, climate is most affected by latitude, the tilt of the
Earth's axis, the movements of the Earth's wind belts, the difference in temperatures of land and
sea, and topography. Human activity, especially relating to actions relating to the depletion of the
ozone layer, is also an important factor (The American Heritage Science Dictionary Copyright,
2005).
Comets. A celestial body that appears as a fuzzy head usually surrounding a bright
nucleus that has a usually highly eccentric orbit, that consists primarily of ice and dust, and that
often develops one or more long tails when near the sun (Merriam- Webster Dictionary, 2011).
Cosmic Radiation. It is the radiation coming from outside the solar system (WordNet
3.0, Farlex clipart collection, 2003-2012).
Domain. Any of three primary divisions of living systems, consisting of the eukaryotes,
bacteria, and archaea, that rank above a kingdom in taxonomic systems that are based on
similarities of DNA sequences. Any of three primary divisions of living systems, consisting of
the eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea, that rank above a kingdom in taxonomic systems that are
based on similarities of DNA sequences (The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English
Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company, 2009)
El Niño. It is a warm ocean current that flows along the equator from the date line and
south off the coast of Ecuador at Christmas time (WordNet 3.0, Farlex clipart collection, 2003-
2012).
 Endangered. It is to expose to harm or danger; imperil (The American Heritage
Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright, 2000).
Extinct. It is having no living members. Species become extinct for many reasons,
including climate change, disease, destruction of habitat, local or worldwide natural disasters,
and development into new species (speciation). The great majority of species that have ever lived

probably more than 99 percent are now extinct (The American Heritage Science Dictionary
Copyright, 2005).
Extinction. It is the process of eliminating or reducing a conditioned response by not
forcing it; the condition or fact of being extinguished (Merriam- Webster Dictionary, 2011).
Family.  Agroup of organisms of the same species living together in a community; A
group of organisms ranking above a genus and below an order. The names of families end in -
ae, a plural ending in Latin. In the animal kingdom, family names end in -idae, as in Canidae
(dogs and their kin), while those in the plant kingdom usually end in -aceae, as in Rosaceae
(roses and their kin) (The American Heritage Science Dictionary Copyright, 2005).
Genus. It is a taxonomic category ranking below a family and above a species and
generally consisting of a group of species exhibiting similar characteristics. In taxonomic
nomenclature the genus name is used, either alone or followed by a Latin adjective or epithet, to
form the name of a species (The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth
Edition copyright, 2000).
Global warming. It is an increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere,
especially a sustained increase great enough to cause changes in the global climate. The Earth
has experienced numerous episodes of global warming through its history, and currently appears
to be undergoing such warming. The present warming is generally attributed to an increase in
the greenhouse effect, brought about by increased levels of greenhouse gases, largely due to the
effects of human industry and agriculture. Expected long-term effects of current global warming
are raising sea levels, flooding, melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, fluctuations in temperature
and precipitation, more frequent and stronger El Niños and La Niñas, drought, heat waves, and
forest fires (The American Heritage Science Dictionary Copyright, 2005).
Invasive. It is involving entry into the living body, tending to spread or infringe
(Merriam- Webster Dictionary, 2011).
 Kingdom. It is the highest classification into which living organisms are grouped in
Linnean taxonomy, ranking above a phylum. One widely accepted system of classification
divides life into five kingdoms: prokaryotes, protists, fungi, plants, and animals (The American
Heritage Science Dictionary Copyright, 2005).
La Niña. It is a cooling of the surface water of the eastern and central Pacific Ocean,
occurring somewhat less frequently than El Niño events but causing similar, generally opposite
disruptions to global weather patterns (The American Heritage Science Dictionary Copyright,
2005).
Life. The properties or qualities that distinguish living plants and organisms from dead or
inanimate matter, including the capacity to grow, metabolize nutrients, respond to stimuli,
reproduce, and adapt to the environment. The definitive beginning and end of human life are
complex concepts informed by medical, legal, sociological, and religious considerations (The
American Heritage Science Dictionary Copyright, 2005).
Phylum. The primary subdivision of a taxonomic kingdom, grouping together all classes
of organisms that have the same body plan (Random House Kernerman Webster's College
Dictionary, 2010).
Species. A class of individuals having common attributes and designated common name;
specifically: a logical division of a genus or more comprehensive class (Merriam- Webster
Dictionary, 2011).
Threatened. Having an uncertain chance of continued survival; specifically: likely to
become an endangered species (Merriam- Webster Dictionary, 2011).
Vulnerable. Susceptible to physical or emotional injury or susceptible to attack (The
American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright, 2000).

Wildlife. Undomesticated animals living in the wild, including those hunted for food,
sport, or profit (Random House Kernerman Webster's College Dictionary, 2010).
EXTINCTION
First thing that would comes to every mind when hearing the word “Extinct” and
“Extinction” are loss, die, disappearance, termination, no longer exist. Existence of anything in
this world has significance to everyone. Considerably the species is extinct if it is no longer
found on any areas in this world, no members of the species lives.
During every biology class, it tackles the different
division of biological level from the given life down to the
bottom which is the species (Photo courtesy:
en.wikipedia.org ).
Philippines as one of the hotspots is composed of
species that is in pinched of extinction. In the next topics
and specifications every endangered Philippine animals are
going to be shown.
Extinction process is not only on animals but also
in the flora (plants). Humans in the other sense due to the
loss under the food chain can also be level as species that
can probably experience in the near future the extinction.
Extinction is a natural process - 99% of all species
that ever lived are now extinct.
• Background rate of extinction = natural
extinctions
For mammal or marine species: each year 1 species out of
every 1–10 million goes extinct
 The current extinction rate is 100 to 1,000 times
greater than the background rate. This rate will increase
tenfold in future decades.
• The Red List = species facing high risks of
extinction
Mammal species (21%), bird species (12%), 17–74% of all other species
Scientists believe species are becoming extinct at the rate of 1 every 15 minutes...100 each
day...and 4,000-6,000 each year.
I. TYPES OF EXTINCTION
A. Functional Extinction - is when only a handful of individuals are left, and the odds of
reproduction are slim.
From the Functional Extinction of Birds Drives Rapid Evolutionary Changes in Seed Size
( 31 May, 2013) “These large bodied species maintain mutuality interactions with plants: while
flesh-fruited plants offer fruits as food sources, frugivores disperse their seeds. Such ecological
process ensures natural regeneration of the forest.”

In this study, functional extinction greatly affects the recreation of new forests through
the seed dispersing the large birds do. As the large birds from the wildlife become extinct, the
small birds can only disperse a small amount of seeds that cannot support the needed growing
rate for a forest trees.
In the end the study point out: “Habitat loss and species extinction is causing drastic
changes in the composition and structure of ecosystems. This involves the loss of key ecosystem
functions that can determine evolutionary changes much faster than we anticipated. Our work
highlights the importance of identifying these key functions to quickly diagnose functional
collapse of ecosystems.”
 B. Co- extinction
-The loss of one species leads to the loss of another in a chain effect. A small
impact in the beginning of extinction can have an overall larger effect. Reasons for coextinction
could be as a result of a predator losing its food source or if a key species becomes extinct and
the ecosystem becomes off balance.

Food chain is the basic

example of figure that can be
label in Coextinction. Plants as
a species recognized for food
productions. Animals as the
consumers serve as the energy
absorbers and users. Level of
food chain becomes higher, the
more dependent the animals to
one another. The energy that
the consumer gets decreases on
every level of eating and being
eaten.

As one food chain has been

erased day by day, the nature,
environment, diversity,
ecosystem and also the living
situations become unstable.

“Nature knows best” it is the

key to the balance of nature.
How nature can regenerate if
even the species cannot practically control the extinction happening in every part of earth?
Actions must prioritize; Governments and public cooperation must be established. (Photo
courtesy:http://king.portlandschools.org/files/houses/y2/animalmaineia/files/species/gseallk/
foodweb/foodweb.html)
 C. Mass Extinction -an extinction event that destroys many species at once.
 A sharp decrease in the number of species on Earth in a short period of time
 Coincides with a sharp drop in speciation
 The process by which new biological species arise
 There have been at least 5 mass extinction events with the most recent being 65 million
years ago with the dinosaur extinction

'So far, only 1 percent to 2 percent of all
species have gone extinct in the groups we
can look at clearly, so by those numbers, it
looks like we are not far down the road to
extinction. We still have a lot of Earth's
biota to save. It's very important to devote
resources and legislation toward species
conservation if we don't want to be the
species whose activity caused a mass
extinction.' - Professor Barnosky
5 Notable Mass Extinction in the World:
(#= millions of years ago)
1.Cretaceous-Tertiary Extinction (65). 
2.End Triassic Extinction (200).  
3.Permian Triassic Extinction (250).
4.Late Devonian Extinction (364).   
5.Ordovician-Silurian Extinction (440).
(Photo Courtesy: National Geographic; Peter Arnold, Inc./Alamy)
This photo was from the article Mass Extinction which mainly focused on the historic prospect
of the new generations of species (from the different kinds of dinosaurs to evolve and probably
going to extinct and renew species now). Part of the article from National Geographic Society
(1996-2014);
The causes of these mass extinction events are unsolved mysteries, though
volcanic eruptions and the impacts of large asteroids or comets are prime
suspects in many of the cases. Both would eject tons of debris into the
atmosphere, darkening the skies for at least months on end. Starved of
sunlight, plants and plant-eating creatures would quickly die. Space rocks
and volcanoes could also unleash toxic and heat-trapping gases that—
once the dust settled—enable runaway global warming.
D. Planned Extinction-Human controlled extinction were thought to be helpful for the human
population but generally ended in the spread of deadly viruses.
II. Levels of Species Extinction
A. Local Extinction - no longer found in an area but is found elsewhere.
B. Ecological Extinction - only a few members left and it can no longer play an
ecological role in the community it is found.
C. Biological Extinction - no longer found on Earth; forever and represents an
irreversible loss of the organism.
III. Causes

Extinction is the effect of the natural and man-made causes for wildlife destruction.
A. Natural Causes
Nature due to its composition can also bring destruction in return. Not only humans have the
capability to be angered on what is destroyed but also nature. Even though nature cannot speak,
shout or anything humans can do but in a way there is an equivalent movement for anything.
Organisms could not survive changes due to various natural events. Natural extinctions have
occurred throughout geologic history. Not all
extinctions have a negative impact; they clear the
way for new kinds of life.

1. Climatic Heating and Cooling

Climate heating is the increase/ higher
temperature of the environment. It is generally
experience in the area like deserts, factory-based
area. Climate cooling is the decrease/ lower
temperature of the environment. It is experience
in the poles (North and South), areas where there
is glaciers, snows and always have rain.
Animals have the capability to adapt on
their environment but in these cases the increase
and decrease of temperature can affect their
system. As the temperature changes, their ability
to adapt become numb, defective and not
functional.
 Philippines have 4 types of climate; these climates can create great effect in any species.
The habitat of different endangered animals is prone to change in climate. Global warming and
Global cooling is another term for this climate heating and cooling. Global warming is an
increase in the average temperature of the earth's atmosphere, especially a sustained increase
sufficient to cause climatic change. Global Cooling (Ice Ages) it is the cooling events caused
Glaciation events wherein ocean water would freeze and therefore lower the sea level.

2. Oxygen Depletion - As water cools, it

causes dramatic shifts in limiting factors such as
oxygen. As oxygen levels in sea water were
depleted, many species died out. Oxygen is one
of the gases needed for any species to live in. As
time passes, as well as the extinction of animals
concern it depletes in the atmosphere. Direct
proportionality the words “extinction and
depletion” it is both decreasing until nothings
left (Photo courtesy: Johnny Foster
| Published July 19, 2012)
From the blog site of Dr. Nitish Priyadarshi (J U L Y 2,
2 0 0 9 ); Can Deforestation bring down
oxygen level?
With forest resources--"the lungs
of the Earth"-- under attack in many
regions, some have raised concerns
about the planet's oxygen supply.
Oxygen is the most abundant chemical
element, by mass, in our biosphere, air,
sea and land. Oxygen is the third most
abundant chemical element in the
universe, after hydrogen and helium, but mainly in combination with something else. The stuff is
all around us but we don’t see it. Chemically joined with other elements it accounts for more
than a quarter of Earth’s total weight and almost half the mass of the crust. Free or dissolved
molecular oxygen, however, represents only 0.01 percent of the total crust, hydrosphere,
atmosphere, and biosphere taken together. Only seven of every billion atoms take the form of
molecular oxygen (O2), plus a legible quantity as atomic or singlet O and ozone (O3). If the
atmosphere contained much more oxygen, it would be inflammable. Remove oxygen and only
anaerobic bacteria could survive.
3. Changes in Sea levels or Currents

Seas as one of the largest bodies of water contains different marine species that is in the
state of extinction. Marine animals considered the flow of currents and the level of the sea. In
every level, there are an exquisite number of marine plants and animals. Tides and other
phenomenon occurring in the water bodies like seas and oceans contribute in the termination of
living animals (Photo courtesy: www.johnstonsarchive.net/spaceart/cylmaps.html).
4. Asteroids or comet impact

The impact from a huge asteroid

would have sent tidal waves across the earth
and caused many fires. Clouds of dust and
ash would block the sunlight. The planet
would cool and plants and animals would die
due to lack of sunlight.

 Causes complete devastation

 During the notable 5 mass extinction, scientists predict that it is due to the asteroid,
comets and other heavenly bodies that pass through the atmosphere down to the earth’s
lithosphere. It causes a complete devastation, clearly wiped out the area where it strikes.

 Flattening and crater at or around impact site-hundreds of miles wide

Due to the impact of the asteroids in the earth surface it emits waves that create different
sizes of crater or holes.
 Reverberations felt around the world
In every impact, it can cause to trigger the surroundings due to the reverberations. Not
only in the lands can the system felt it but also in water bodies and air pressures.

5. Cosmic Radiation
(Photo courtesy:
www.iit.edu/~ipro313s/home.html)

This event happens when the radiation coming

from outside the solar system enters the
earth’s biosphere. It can cause different
reactions to every species.

6. Acid Rain
 Kills acid intolerant species
  rain that contains a high concentration of pollutants, chiefly sulphur dioxide and nitrogen
oxide, released into the atmosphere by the burning of fossil fuels such as coal or oil.
 7. Disease and Epidemics
In the years of living of every species it is inevitable to happen once in a while to have a
disease and epidemics due to the changes species bodies acquired. Can wipe out entire species in
a specific due to lack of medicinal applications and cure.
8. Spread of Invasive Species
 Native species are those plants and animals that are part of a specific geographic area,
and have ordinarily been a part of that particular biological landscape for a lengthy period of
time. Exotic species however are interlopers. These species are introduced into new
environments by way of human activities, either intentionally or accidentally. These interlopes
are viewed by the native species as foreign elements. Exotic species may also seriously disrupt
delicate ecological balances and may produce a plethora of unintended yet harmful consequences
(they put native in jeopardy by preying on them).
 Introduction of non-native species to new areas
In the Philippines, it is prone now the exportation and importation of animals labeled to
be endangered not being checked by the government agencies.
 Island species are especially vulnerable
The species become the prey of the new predators and in the end causes termination of
the native and weaker animals.
One of the news articles: ‘Alien’ turtles threaten local species by DJ Yap of Philippine
Daily Inquirer (31 March, 2013):
“The overpopulation of Chinese soft-shell turtles poses a
significant threat to Philippines endemic and indigenous fish and aquatic
animals as well as to local fishponds and fishery operations,” Director
Theresa Mundita Lim of PAWB (Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau).
She directed aquatic authorities to control the population of the turtle,
considered to be an “invasive alien species” in the parts of Luzon.
Another article from Philippine Daily Inquirer (21 July, 2013) “BFAR told mosquito fish
is ‘invasive alien species’:
Director Theresa Mundita Lim of PAWB (Protected Areas and
Wildlife Bureau), said “further and intentional release of the mosquito
fish into the waterways may bring more serious implications and
irreversible damage to our already fragile biodiversity.”
9. Volcanic Activity
It is the process or event wherein the huge lava flows that produced enormous amounts of
ash. The ash in the air altered the global climate and ocean chemistry.
B. Man-made Causes
Many plants and animals are likely to become extinct in the near future. Humans remove
survival needs of many organisms. Man also threatening own biological resources. Man-made
factors are damaging the Earth. Natural factors usually occur at a slower rate and therefore cause
a low extinction rate. Human activities occur at a faster rate and cause higher extinction rates.
Human activities are mostly responsible for the present extinction rates.
1. Habitat Alteration
Habitats are destroyed, fragmented,
and degraded due to:
 Farming simplifies communities
 Grazing modifies grassland structure
and composition
 Clearing forests removes resources
organisms need
 Hydroelectric dams turn rivers into
reservoirs
 Suburban sprawl replaces natural
communities

2. Habitat Fragmentation
-gradual, piecemeal degradation of
habitat
Ex. Farming, roads, logging, etc.
-Continuous habitats are broken into
patches
Ex. Species needing that habitat
disappears
-Landscape-level strategies try to
optimize areas to be preserved
 3. Habitat Loss
Habitat loss and
degradation affect
86% of all threatened
birds, 86% of
mammals and 88% of
threatened
amphibians

4. Over-harvesting or Hunting
 Vulnerable species: K-selected
Large, few in number, long-lived, and have few
young
 The Siberian tiger is hunted without rules and
regulations
Powerful economic incentives increase poaching
 Many other species are affected
Whales, sharks, gorillas
The oceans contain only 10% of the large animals
they once did
5.

Pollution
Pollution harms organisms in many ways
 Air pollution degrades forest
ecosystems
 Water pollution impairs fish and
amphibians
 Agricultural runoff harms terrestrial and
aquatic species
 Toxins, garbage, oil, and chemicals impact organisms
Damage to wildlife
and ecosystems
caused by
pollution can be
severe. But it is
less than the
damage caused by
habitat alteration
or invasive
species.

IV. EFFECTS – As the figure shown (cycle) Extinction is just like the biodiversity loss. Every
single species are considered to be part of any other species. Extinction is the effect of all the
causes stated. Though right now it’s minimal in number of the endangered species but as time
will pass greater effect will happen.
V. PREVENTION
What can you do to help endangered species?
 Learn as much as you can about endangered species in your area
 Visit a nearby national wildlife refuge or nature center
 Volunteer to help
 Don’t buy species illegally taken from the wild
 Don’t buy products made from threatened or endangered species.
*The most hope for endangered species lies in the hands of young people like you who care
enough to make a difference.*
PHILIPPINES ENDANGERED SPECIES
According to the Case Study, the Diversity of Life on Earth: Chapter VII: Biodiversity
Hotspots and Conservation Priorities, (2010):
The Philippines is one of the ten most biologically mega-diverse countries
and is at or near the top in terms of biodiversity per unit area. Around 1,100 land
vertebrate species can be found in the Philippines including over 100 mammal
species and 170 bird species not thought to exist elsewhere.
With an estimated 13,500 plant species in the country, 3,200 of which are
unique to the islands, Philippine rainforests boast an array of flora, including
many rare types of orchids and Rafflesia. Philippine territorial waters encompass
as much as 1.67 million square kilometers producing unique and diverse marine
life and is an important part of the Coral Triangle.
Deforestation, often the result of illegal logging, is an acute problem in
the Philippines. Forest cover declined from 70% of the country's total land area
in 1900 to about 18.3% in 1999. Many species are endangered and scientists say
that South East Asia, which the Philippines are part of, faces a catastrophic
extinction rate. According to Conservation International, the country is one of the
few nations that is, in its entirety, both a hotspot and a mega-diversity country,
placing it among the top priority hotspots for global conservation.
Species can be considered either plants, animals, humans, microorganisms or any kind
and classification of individual. Philippines Endangered Species part will focused on the
FAUNA (animals).
A. Philippines Freshwater and Marine Fishes
The following designs/ pictures/graphics are created by A.C. Alcala.
Marine wildlife is also in danger of the human and nature way of extinction process. One
example of endangered species in the Philippine Freshwater and Marine Fishes is: Giant Clams
B. Philippine Amphibians and Reptiles
The following information by A.C. Alcala and A. Diesmos:

Some of the Endangered Animals under

Philippine Reptiles and Amphibians:
 Philippine Sailfin Lizard
 Philippine Freshwater Crocodile

 Leatherback Sea Turtle

 C. Philippine Birds
The following information by J.C. Gonzales:

Some Endangered Philippine Birds:

 Palawan Peacock Pheasant

 Luzon Bleeding- Heart Dove

 Sulu Hornbill
 Red-Vented Cockatoo

 Philippine Eagle
D. Philippine Marine Mammals
The following information by M.L.Dolar:
 Endangered Philippine Marine Mammal:

 Dugong
 E. Philippine Land Mammals
The following information by E.L. Alcala & B. Tabaranza:

Some of the Endangered Philippine Land Mammals:

 Calamian Deer
 Golden-Capped Fruit Bat
 Philippine Tarsier

 Philippine Tamaraw
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
Every aspect of animals needs the protection not only from individual human but also in
the government to provide the necessary needs of every endangered animal.
1. BFAR- Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic  Freshwater snakes
Resources  All aquatic invertebrates (marine and
2. BAI Bureau of Animal Industry freshwater)
3. CITES Convention on International Trade 5. DENR Department of Environment and
in Endangered Species Natural Resources
4. DA Department of Agriculture  Terrestrial plants
 All marine mammals  All terrestrial mammalian species
 Freshwater mammals  Dugong
 Sea snakes
  All bird species including waterbirds 15. WWF World Wildlife Fund
 Terrestrial snakes Management

 Freshwater turtles and tortoises Authorities

 Sea Turtles  PAWB - terrestrial

species
 Crocodiles
 BFAR - aquatic
 All lizards,
resources
including
 PCSD - Province of
sailfin lizard
Palawan
 All terrestrial
Scientific Authorities
invertebrates, including land
Terrestrial Species
snails
 ERDB-DENR
 Wildlife conservation projects of
 UP Institute of
national concern in Palawan
Biological Sciences
(PWRCC & PCCP)
 National Museum of
6. EMB Environmental Management Bureau
the Philippines
7. FMB Forest Management Bureau
 Other agencies as
8. FPE Foundation for the Philippine
may be designated
Environment
Marine & Aquatic Species
9. PAF Philippine Avicultural Federation
 UP Marine Science
10. PAMB Protected Areas Management
Institute
Board
 UP Visayas
11. PAWB Protected Areas and Wildlife
 Siliman University
Bureau
 National Museum of
12. PCP Pawikan Conservation Project
the Philippines
13. PCSDS Palawan Council on Sustainable
 BFAR
Development Staff
 Other agencies as
14. USAID United States Agency for
may be designated
International Development
PHILIPPINES LAWS AND ACTS

Based from the Law:

Republic Act 9147
which is AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE
CONSERVATION AND
PROTECTION OF
WILDLIFE
RESOURCES AND
THEIR HABITATS,
APPROPRIATING
FUNDS THEREFOR
AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES

Declaration of Policy. It shall be the policy of the State to conserve the country's wildlife
resources and their habitats for sustainability. In the pursuit of this policy, this Act shall have the
following objectives:
(a) to conserve and protect wildlife species and their habitats to promote ecological balance and
enhance biological diversity;
(b) to regulate the collection and trade of wildlife;
(c) to pursue, with due regard to the national interest, the Philippine commitment to international
conventions, protection of wildlife and their habitats; and
(d) to initiate or support scientific studies on the conservation of biological diversity.

News, Articles, Documentaries

News and Articles that are promising and give a beneficial factor in discovering the
world of Philippine Animal Extinction was provided by their different categories which is based
on the Endangered Species Division.

Documentaries source was based from the Philippines television program “Born to be
Wild” which was chosen as champion in the media category for pursuing the advocacy of
biodiversity conservation through powerful medium of television. From the Magazine
CHAMPION:
The show has proven to be effective in raising public concern on
biodiversity issues as evidenced by the countless calls and letters from its viewers
who report illegal wildlife trade or who want to surrender illegally kept species.
A. Philippine Freshwater and Marine Fishes
News Article from the PAWB site which focus on the Philippine Marine
Resources:
The theme “Buhay Dagat, Buhay Natin” is in consonance with
the universal theme of“Marine Biodiversity” of the International Day of
Biological Diversity (IDBD) on May 22, as declared by the United
Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. It captures the intrinsic link
of the ocean’s bounties to the everyday existence of human beings.

B. Philippine Amphibians and Reptiles

Documentary: Born to be Wild:Mga bitatawa at butaan, ibinebenta ng ilang taga-Aurora (Jun 1,
2012)
Sa isang residential area sa Aurora, nakita nina Doc Nielsen
Donato at ng Born team ang isang residente na nanghuhuli at naglalako
ng mga bitatawa at butaan, mga uri ng reptiles. (Date aired: May 30,
2012)
 C. Philippine Birds
News Article from the PAWB site which focus on the Philippine Eagle:

The Philippine eagle’s presence in the forests speaks of a healthy

and sustainable environment. These “birds of prey” uphold the ecological
balance in the forests where, as natural predators, regulate the population
of smaller animals such as rodents and snakes that can destroy
agricultural crops and pose danger to humans. Other raptors act as
“natural garbage disposers” where they scavenge on dead animal
carcasses to prevent disease outbreak and maintain a balanced and robust
ecosystem.

D. Philippine Marine Mammals

Documentary: Born to be Wild: Pangangatay ng manta ray at devil ray sa isla ng Pam (May 25,
2012),
Sa isla ng Pamilacan, ilang residente ang nagkakatay ng malalaking isda
gaya ng devil ray at manta ray. Alam man nilang ipinagbabawal ito, ginagawa pa
rin nila ito para pagkunan ng pangkabuhayan. (Date aired: May 23, 2012)

News Article from the DENR site which focus on the Dugong: PAWB to send
team to investigate death of Dugong in Palawan (20 December 2013),

As herbivores, dugongs (also known as duyong) mainly feed on seagrass

and maintain the ecological health of seagrass beds as food and habitat for other
marineanimals such as pawikan (sea turtles) and smaller fishes.

E. Philippine Land Mammals

News Article from the PAWB site which focus on the Philippine Tamaraw:
“Tamaraw ng Mindoro: Pagdami mo’y inaasam ko, gubat na tahanan mo’y
pangangalagaan ko!”:
Presidential Proclamation No. 273 of 2002 declares October of every year
as a “Special Month for the Conservation and Protection of the Tamaraw in
Mindoro”. The Proclamation urged all government offices, agencies and
instrumentalities in the whole Island of Mindoro to implement activities geared
toward the conservation of the Tamaraw and its habitats.
Documentaries from Born to be Wild: The search for the elusive tamaraw( Jul 29, 2013);
Doc Nielsen Donato searches for the endangered tamaraw on the slopes on Mt. Iglit-Baco.
Two female tamaraws is being chased by one male tamaraw to mate but in the slope area it is
viewed perfectly that the tamaraw’s fall down the slope.

Some other news and articles are only sited to have an idea about the ongoing fields of
Philippines species. Documentaries are directly viewed in a specific site of Born to be wild.

CONCLUSIONS
Life on Earth- World- Asia- Philippines is very huge for every individual to live in but
due to the circumstances it will gradually experience extinction at the time that is unexpected.
From my point of view: Being an individual my life depends on everything in this world. Even
though I cannot sense it; I am bound to be part of it. Animal Extinction expectedly just one of the
effects of human and nature tandem to destroy at the same time renew generations.
Being a student who critically research about this effect called ANIMAL EXTINCTION,
I can say that “Animals need our help! Animals are also creatures need to have a wonderful and
comfortable habitat. They also need life sources, just like us human that need: WATER, FOOD
(which has nutrients) and AIR”. Government Agencies need to expand their protection and
security to the ENDANGERED species of our country. We must remember that it is the only left
specie that we must protect.
As Future Engineer, I think discovering what can benefit both side (human& animals
with environment) must be develop. Though we are in the modern age FARMING and FOREST
RESTORATION must regain in the system of our country. To create sanctuary that animals can
live the life they wanted freely and comfortably.
Actually from the very start “I LOVE NATURE” specially Plants. Though my topic is
about animals I also like it during my biology class because of the levels of classification. Right
now, my mind becomes wider enough to fully critically understand the life of animals during
their extinction duration. I also think that it is hard to be classified as one of the endangered
species because you’re alone; by yourself I think it is extremely lonely.

RECOMMENDATIONS
  We must protect every single species.
 Read some sites, articles, news and books about animals to ponder more on their life.
 Taking care of them in this generation to be future rediscovery in the other generations.
 As our country being part of the hotspot, we must protect it to the future.
 God given us this wonderful plants and animals, we must be responsible enough to be the
shepherd, to take the lead to the future full of a stable diversity

REFERENCES
BLOG SITE
Priyadarshi, Nitish. (2 July,2009). Can Deforestation bring down oxygen level?.
http://nitishpriyadarshi.blogspot.com/2009/07/no-forest-no-oxygen.html

BOOKS
Jordano, Pedro. (31 May, 2013). Our study on functional extinction of frugivores,
published in Science. http://pedrojordano.wordpress.com/2013/05/31/our-study-on-
functional-extinction-of-frugivores-published-in-science/

CASE STUDY
Sylvain Richer de Forges. (2010). The Diversity Of Life On Earth: Chapter VII:
Biodiversity Hotspots and Conservation Priorities.

DOCUMENTARIES
Born to be Wild: Mga bitatawa at butaan, ibinebenta ng ilang taga-Aurora. (Jun 1, 2012).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFIqWagCcR8
Born to be Wild: Pangangatay ng manta ray at devil ray sa isla ng Pam. (May 25, 2012).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbpuT96rr3U. (Date aired: May 23, 2012)
Born to be Wild: The search for the elusive tamaraw. (Jul 29, 2013).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9VIOMFt3rk

GOVERNMENT SITES
http://freeland.org/eng/
http://mwwphilippines.org/2013/08/06/philippine-and-international-laws-on-marine-
wildlife-protection/
http://wwf.org.ph/
http://www.asean-wen.org/
 http://www.cites.org/
http://www.cms.int/
http://www.denr.gov.ph/
http://www.pawb.gov.ph/
http://www.usaid.gov/philippines

MAGAZINE FEATURES
National Geographic Society. (1996-2014).
http://science.nationalgeographic.com/science/prehistoric-world/mass -extinction/?
rptregcta=reg_free_np&rptregcampaign=20131016_rw_membership_r1p_intl_dr_w#

Sixth mass extinction 'that will eradicate 75% of life on Earth is drawing closer’. (March
03, 2011). http://thewatchers.adorraeli.com/2011/03/03/sixth-mass-extinction-that-will-eradicate-
75-of-life-on-earth-is-drawing-closer/

NEWS ARTICLES
Yap, DJ. (31 March, 2013). ‘Alien’ turtles threaten local species. Philippine Daily
Inquirer. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/382103/alien-turtles-threaten-local-species

Philippine Daily Inquirer. (21 July, 2013). “BFAR told mosquito fish is ‘invasive
alien species’. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/449477/bfar-told-mosquito-fish-is-invasive-
alien-species
PICTURES
http://buffonescience9.wikispaces.com/UNIT+6+-+Ecology
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_Agriculture_(Philippines)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine_Animal_Welfare_Society
http://fosterlake.com/blog/?attachment_id=177
http://pinasbackpackers.blogspot.com/2011/05/takbo-gensan-series-12-general-santos.html
PRESENTATIONS
Philippine endangered species. (Mar 04, 2012).
http://www.slideshare.net/jpangcog/philippine-endangered-species#
Endangered Species & Extinction. ( Nov 02, 2012). Presentation for Environmental
Science 110 @ Indiana State University. http://www.slideshare.net/zpearson/endangered-
species-extinction
Natural Causes of Extinction. www.uwec.edu/jolhm/EH4/Extinction/Extinction.ppt
Endangered Species Presentation. psdweb.parklandsd.org/.../Endangered
%20Species%20Presentation.ppt
Extinct Animals - Vesey Science. veseyscience.pbworks.com/f/Extinct+Animals.ppt
Extinction.ppt. teachers.greenville.k12.sc.us/.../Extinctions%20and
%20Adaptations/Exti...
 Endangered species ppt - Slideshare.
www.slideshare.net/mrstadams22/endangered-species-ppt
Endangered Animals PowerPoint.
ellerbruch.nmu.edu/classes/cs255f03/cs255students/.../P12/animals1.ppt
Environmental Science - Extinction. pccc.edu/uploads/0a/50/.../Stem_Extinction.ppt
Extinction Processes. facstaff.uwa.edu/jmccall/ConBio/Extinction.ppt
Biodiversity Loss and Species Extinction.pptx - science-b - home. science-
b.hyde.wikispaces.net/.../APES+Lesson+38+-+Biodiversity+Loss...
ENDANGERED SPECIES.
www.csustan.edu/agstudies/documents/.../ENDANGEREDSPECIES.ppt

RESEARCH
ASSESSING PROGRESS TOWARDS THE 2010 BIODIVERSITY TARGET: The
4th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity Republic of the
Philippines. (2009).

WEBSITES
http://animalstime.com/endangered-animals-in-the-philippines-top-5-endangered-species/
http://www.endangeredspecie.com/causes_of_endangerment.htm
http://www.lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2001/ra_9147_2001.html
http://www.pcsd.ph/Related%20Laws/republic_acts/ra9147.htm
http://www.uwec.edu/jolhm/EH4/Extinction/TypesLink.html
http://herenthereneverywhere.wordpress.com/2009/10/30/extinction-and-debt/
http://www.philippines.hvu.nl/animals1.htm
http://www.philippinetrails.com/wildlife.html