Ten Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeons were turned over by the Mandai Wildlife Group (MWG) based in Singapore to the Talarak Foundation – Negros Forest Park in Bacolod City, this morning.

The event marks the first repatriation of this critically endangered species, which is endemic to Negros and Panay. It forms part of the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at recovering wild populations and ensuring the long-term survival of the species.

The repatriation was led by the Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in collaboration with Talarak Foundation, Inc. and MWG.

In September 2021, three breeding pairs of Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeons were entrusted to MWG in Singapore—then known as the Jurong Bird Park—as part of a groundbreaking captive breeding program. This initiative by the Provincial Government was a significant step toward ensuring the survival of the critically endangered species.

After three years, MWG is returning ten birds to Negros Occidental, marking the first-ever repatriation of the Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeon to its native country.

Governor Bong Lacson said that the return of the progeny of the Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeons underscores the importance of commitment, collaboration, and hope for the preservation of Negros Occidental’s critically endangered wildlife.

The governor expressed gratitude to MWG, the Singaporean government, and the Talarak Foundation for their invaluable support in ensuring the future of the species. He emphasized that the survival of the Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeon relies not only on breeding programs but also on collective efforts in reforestation, conservation education, and community engagement.

Present at the event were Her Excellency Constance See, Ambassador of the Republic of Singapore to the Philippines; MWG Chief of Life Sciences Dr. Cheng Wen-Haur; PENRO Negros Occidental Head Engr. Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya; Talarak Foundation, Inc. President Fernando Gutierrez; and TFI Executive Director Matthew Edward, among others.*