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Philippine authorities rescue injured raptor from Romblon waters

Environmental officials in Romblon have taken custody of a bird of prey discovered floating off Santa Fe town over the weekend. The raptor, a species commonly referred to locally as a lawin or banog, is now undergoing assessment and care.

LSN Philippines · 28 September 2026

The bird was spotted by residents in waters near Santa Fe and promptly retrieved from the sea. It was immediately transferred to provincial environmental authorities for evaluation of its condition and any injuries sustained.

Raptors such as the lawin and banog are protected species in the Philippines and play a vital role in the country's ecosystem as apex predators. Incidents of injured or distressed raptors being found in Philippine waters are not uncommon, often resulting from collisions, fishing entanglement, or other environmental hazards.

Environmental officials did not immediately disclose details regarding the bird's current health status or the timeline for potential release back into the wild. The rescue underscores ongoing conservation efforts across the archipelago to protect endangered and vulnerable bird species.

Santa Fe, located in Romblon province in the central Philippines, is situated in waters frequented by numerous migratory and resident bird species. The community's quick response in reporting and securing the raptor aided in its rescue and transfer to specialized care.