Ontario alumni inks MOA to support SU’s conservation of Negros bleeding-heart pigeon
The Ontario Silliman University Alumni Association (ONSUAA) has partnered with Silliman University (SU) in its efforts to conserve the critically endangered Gallicolumba keayi, commonly known as the Negros bleeding-heart pigeon.
Armida Amor, ONSUAA board member, met with Dr. Betty Cernol McCann, SU president, and Dr. Earl Jude Paul L. Cleope, SU vice president for Academic Affairs, for the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on September 7, 2023. The MOA outlines the comprehensive efforts that ONSUAA and SU will undertake to contribute to the conservation of the Negros bleeding-heart Pigeon.
ONSUAA board members paid a visit to SU’s conservation breeding facility at the Center for Tropical Conservation Studies (CENTROP) in Palinpinon, Valencia on September 11 to witness firsthand the ongoing efforts of SU to protect the species.
During the visit, ONSUAA representatives engaged with CENTROP personnel who are working to ensure the survival of the critically endangered bird.
Asst. Prof. Leandro S. Cabrera, CENTROP coordinator, expressed his gratitude for the partnership: “CENTROP is very thankful for being chosen as one of the priority projects of ONSUAA. Their support would significantly help our critically endangered wildlife, particularly the Negros bleeding-heart pigeon.”
Jocelyn Elise B. Inocencio, CENTROP researcher, said the partnership between ONSUAA and SU is a “remarkable example of how universities and alumni associations can come together to make a positive impact on environmental conservation.”
Recognized for its distinctive red “bleeding heart” patch on its breast, the Negros bleeding-heart pigeon is an endemic species, found only in the islands of Negros and Panay. The population of this species has declined, primarily due to the destruction of its habitat.
Through CENTROP, SU has a long-standing history of environmental conservation with a deep commitment to preserving the unique biodiversity of Negros Island.
CENTROP operates conservation breeding programs for endemic species like the Negros bleeding-heart pigeon, Visayan Warty Pig, and Philippine Spotted Deer, with the goal of bolstering the population and ensuring the long-term survival of these iconic and irreplaceable species.
The ONSUAA has consistently supported SU’s programs, especially through scholarships. This year, ONSUAA decided to include environmental conservation in their priority projects.
(With reports from CENTROP)
