Philippine Eagle Center | Davao City

The Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) is a primary conservation and breeding facility located at the foothills of Mount Apo in Davao City. It is dedicated to the protection of the critically endangered Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi).

Visual Characteristics

The center is designed to simulate a tropical rainforest environment. It features massive walk-in aviaries, lush greenery, and gravel pathways. The enclosures are strategically integrated into the existing forest canopy to provide a natural habitat for the raptors. It houses various species of eagles, hawks, owls, and other indigenous Philippine wildlife.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Purok 5, Malagos-Baguio District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur.

Access: Located approximately 30 kilometers from Davao City proper.

Transport: * Private Vehicle/Taxi: The most direct method; travel time is approximately 45–60 minutes.

Public Transport: Take a L300 van or bus from the Annil Terminal heading to Calinan, then take a tricycle to the Malagos Water District where the center is located.

Entry: Admission requires an entrance fee. Separate fees may apply for the Malagos Watershed area.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The center is managed by the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), a non-profit organization established in 1987. It serves as a research and conservation hub following the success of the first captive-bred Philippine Eagle, "Pag-asa," in 1992. The facility is situated within the Malagos Watershed, a critical protected area for Davao’s water supply and biodiversity.

Key Highlights & Activities

Eagle Viewing: Observation of the Philippine Eagle, the world's largest eagle by wing surface and length.

Keeper Talks: Educational sessions led by conservationists regarding the breeding programs and threats to the species.

Falconry Displays: Scheduled interactive demonstrations featuring various birds of prey.

Wildlife Biodiversity: The center also houses Philippine monkeys, deer, and various reptile species.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility includes a visitor center, a souvenir shop selling conservation-themed merchandise, and basic public restrooms. Footpaths are mostly unpaved but well-maintained. 5G cellular coverage is intermittent due to the dense forest cover.

Best Time to Visit

Operating Hours: Daily from 08:00 to 16:30.

Morning: Best for observing bird activity, as raptors are most active and visible during the early hours.

Weather: Best visited during the dry season to avoid muddy trails.

Facts & Legends

The Philippine Eagle is often called the "Monkey-eating Eagle," though its diet actually consists of a variety of small animals. It is a symbol of Filipino national pride and its conservation status is a major focus of international ecological efforts.

Nearby Landmarks

Malagos Garden Resort: 0.5 km North

Mount Apo National Park: Accessible via nearby trailheads

Davao City Center: 30 km Southeast