Western Philippines University (WPU) marked World Pangolin Day: Youth Legacy for Pangolin Conservation with a vibrant celebration, bringing together conservationists, educators, and students to raise awareness about one of the world’s most trafficked mammals—the pangolin.
WPU President Dr. Amabel Liao, Atty. Teodoro Jose Matta, Executive Director of the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD), and Palawan State University (PSU) representatives joined the event, reinforcing the shared commitment to wildlife conservation. Dr. Sabine Schoppe, Chair of SPCM and Director of the Pangolin Conservation Program at Katala Foundation Inc., shared a lecture on the “Palawan Pangolin” and served as the resource speaker for the occassion.
The Palawan Pangolin: A Species in Peril
Palawan is home to the Philippine pangolin (Manis culionensis), also locally known as “balintong”, a pangolin species endemic to the province. Due to rampant poaching and habitat loss, its population has drastically declined recently, making conservation efforts like this event more critical than ever.
Students Take Center Stage
With nearly 200 students from WPU, PSU, Fullbright College, Palawan Polytechnic College Inc. (PPCI), and Holy Trinity University (HTU) in attendance, the event encouraged enthusiasm and learning through friendly competitions:
Quiz Bee: PSU claimed first place, followed by HTU (second place) and WPU (third place), represented by Yuan Kirsten Ynciong, Emaly Sahawi, and Nicole Heart Banate.
Canvas Painting: HTU secured first place, PSU took second, and HTU again clinched third.
Spoken Poetry: PPCI swept first and second place, while PSU took third.
Looking Ahead: A Continued Commitment
The celebration underscored the importance of pangolin conservation, inspiring young minds to take action. As the torch passes to PSU for next year’s World Pangolin Day, the movement to protect these unique creatures continues to grow.
A heartfelt gratitude to all participants, organizers, and advocates. Together, let’s safeguard our pangolins for future generations!
Western Philippines University spearheaded the activity in partnership with Conservation International (CI), Katala Foundation Inc. (KFI), and Palawan State University (PSU).
[This article is in line with the SDGs 4, 11, 13, & 15]