22/04/2026
๐ฅ Beyond the Burn: Philippine Megapodes or Philippine Scrubfowl Sighted during Rapid Environmental Assessment in Homonhon Island ๐ชถ ๐๐ฑ
In line with Earth Day, April 22, 206
In response to the recent occurrences of grass fires in Homonhon Island, a composite team from the Local Government Unit of Guiuan was deployed upon the direction of the Municipal Mayor, Hon. Annaliza P. Gonzales-Kwan, to undertake a ground-level assessment of the affected areas.
On April 19, 2026 (Sunday), the teamโheaded by Mr. Tycho O. Mabansag, OIC-MENRO, and composed of a Forester and personnel from the MDRRMOโs Guiuan Specialized Unit for Rescue, First Aid, and Emergency Response (SURFER)โproceeded to Homonhon Island to conduct Rapid Environmental Assessment.
This initiative comes as the Municipality joins the global observance of Earth Day on April 22โa timely reminder that caring for the environment is not only commemorative, but continuous and action-driven. The activity reflects LGU Guiuanโs steady commitment to environmental stewardship, particularly in addressing emerging concerns through coordinated and science-based approaches.
The assessment focused on:
โ๏ธ Understanding the extent and pattern of the fires
โ๏ธ Documenting environmental conditions and impacts
โ๏ธ Identifying potential risks to water sources, vegetation, and adjacent coastal areas
โ๏ธ Informing appropriate response and rehabilitation measures
Preliminary observations show that the fires have affected portions of the upland grassland areas across several barangays, with multiple ignition sites. While these areas are classified as Timberlands, they remain an integral part of the broader ecosystemโsupporting water systems, soil stability, and downstream coastal environments.
Notably, during the assessment, the team also sighted two (2) Philippine Megapodes (Megapodius cumingii)โcommonly known as the Tabon Scrubfowl or Philippine Scrubfowl. These birds are recognized as โbeach forest and small island specialists,โ making their presence a meaningful indicator of the ecological value and resilience of Homonhonโs natural habitats.
MENRO Guiuan expresses its sincere appreciation to the Municipal Administratorโs Office, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), and the Office of Sangguniang Bayan Member Hon. Kinna Mae G. Kwan-Mabansag, ENP, for facilitating close coordination among partner agencies. This collaboration enabled seamless engagement with the Provincial Governor's Office, HilCH, Office of the Civil Defense (OCD), the Armed Forces of the Philippines โ Philippine Air Force (AFP-PAF), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), BLGUs of Homonhon Island, ERT from the mining companies, and volunteers contributing to more efficient and organized ground operations.
The LGU likewise extends its gratitude to the Office of the Representative of the Lone Congressional District of Eastern Samar, Cong. Sheen Gonzales, for his prompt response in coordinating and requesting air assets to support the ongoing response to the grass fires.
๐ข Moving Forward:
The public is encouraged to remain mindful of activities that may contribute to fire risks and to continue supporting efforts that promote environmental protection and resilience.
This Earth Day, we are reminded: stewardship is shared, and every action counts.
