BAGUIO CITY — The wetlands of Santa Marcela in Apayao are emerging as a thriving refuge for both migratory and resident bird species, with waterbird numbers posting a dramatic rise in the past year, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Results from the 2026 Asian Waterbird Census recorded 4,125 waterbirds across key wetland sites in Santa Marcela, a sharp increase from the 1,169 individuals counted in 2025. The census was conducted early this year, underscoring the growing ecological value of the municipality’s wetlands.
DENR said the most frequently observed species included the Intermediate Egret, Little Egret, and the Philippine Duck, indicating favorable habitat conditions for both native and visiting birds. The survey also documented a wide range of other species, such as the Black-crowned Night Heron, Purple Heron, Yellow Bittern, several kingfisher species, Black-naped Oriole, Pink-necked Green Pigeon, Yellow-vented Bulbul, Philippine Bulbul, Australasian Grass Owl, Long-tailed Shrike, and Crested Mynah.
The census covered Bacut Lake, Tacang Small Water Impounding Project (SWIP), and marshland areas in Barangays Marcela, Nueva, and Panay. Field observations were carried out from January 14 to 15, 2026, by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office of Apayao and the Community ENRO–Calanasan, in coordination with the local government unit of Santa Marcela.
DENR officials said the latest findings highlight Santa Marcela’s wetlands as a critical habitat for avian biodiversity, reinforcing the need for sustained conservation efforts anchored on strong collaboration among government agencies, local governments, and community stakeholders.
The department assured the public that it will continue biodiversity monitoring initiatives and strengthen wetland protection measures in the area to ensure that gains in wildlife populations are maintained.
Based on data from the Global Forest Watch, Santa Marcela had an estimated 11 hectares of wetlands as of 2020, making the protection of these ecosystems even more vital amid development pressures and climate-related threats.
Apayao’s conservation importance is further underscored by its designation as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, making it the fourth area in the Philippines to receive the status after Albay, Palawan, and Puerto Galera. The designation affirms the province’s role in balancing biodiversity conservation with sustainable development, providing long-term safeguards for habitats such as the wetlands of Santa Marcela.