Another critically endangered species is the tamaraw, a dwarf buffalo found exclusively on Mindoro Island. Its current population is estimated at 480 to 600 individuals, a number that has declined due to habitat loss, hunting, and human encroachment.
CRITICALLY Endangered animals in the Philippines
The Philippine pangolin, also known as the Palawan pangolin, faces an even grimmer outlook. While exact population figures are unavailable, the species is listed as critically endangered, with estimates indicating a decline of up to 95%over the last four decades. The illegal wildlife trade continues to pose a major threat to its survival.
Marine turtles in the Philippines are also in danger, suffering from habitat destruction, poaching, and accidental capture in fishing gear. These threats have caused a drastic drop in their numbers, making it increasingly difficult for them to reproduce and maintain healthy populations.
The Philippine cockatoo, is another species on the brink. Found mainly in Palawan and the Sulu Archipelago, their wild population is now estimated at only 820 to 1,280 individuals.
Lastly, the dugong, often referred to as the "Gentle Giant of the Sea," is facing mounting threats in Philippine waters. Fewer than 10,000 dugongs are believed to remain, with most found around Palawan. Habitat degradation, pollution, and fishing-related activities continue to jeopardize their already vulnerable population.
Uniting for Wildlife
In response to the urgent need to protect and preserve the Philippines’ critically endangered wildlife, the Department of Natural Resources, in partnership with the SM Group, BDO Unibank, and various non-government organizations, has launched a nationwide conservation initiative.
VIPs, guests, and participants pose for a group hurrah
The campaign, titled “Save from Extinction,” was officially unveiled on May 16, 2025, at the Mall of Asia Atrium. This collaborative effort aims to raise at least ₱200 million to support key conservation programs and projects.
Proceeds from the campaign will benefit several leading environmental organizations, including the Forest Foundation Philippines, KATALA Foundation, Philippine Eagle Foundation, WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature), the Zoological Society of London, and the d’Aboville Foundation. These groups play a vital role in the protection of endangered species and ecosystems across the country.
“Save from Extinction” serves as a powerful call to action, uniting the public and private sectors in a shared mission to ensure that future generations can continue to witness the beauty and biodiversity of the Philippines.
Doing Our Part for the Environment
Everyone has a role to play in protecting our planet—and supporting endangered species in the Philippines is a great place to start. Advocates and supporters can contribute to the “Save from Extinction” campaign in the following meaningful ways:
Shop with a purpose
Purchase campaign merchandise such as pants, shirts, shawls, bags, toys, and accessories at participating SM Supermalls stores, including Toy Kingdom, SM Fashion, and Kultura. A portion of every purchase goes directly to partner NGOs involved in conservation efforts.
BDO Unibank as Donation Channel
Supporting the cause is easy and convenient. You can donate anytime from the comfort of your home via BDO Online Banking, or through bank deposit and ATM transactions. There are more than 1,200 BDO branches nationwide where you can transact for this good cause. There’s no minimum amount, and every centavo you give helps make a big difference.
Together, through small acts of support and a shared commitment to conservation, we can make a lasting impact. The fight to save our endangered wildlife begins with us—let’s protect what remains, restore what’s lost, and ensure that future generations inherit a world rich in life and wonder.
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