The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is strengthening habitat protection and monitoring efforts in Mindoro as the intensifying El Niño threatens the food and water sources of the critically endangered tamaraw.
Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Efren de los Reyes warned that prolonged dry conditions and rising temperatures could reduce water availability in tamaraw habitats, putting the wild buffalo at greater risk.
He said protecting forests is essential to preserving natural water sources and maintaining a suitable habitat for the species.
Among the resources at risk are muddy wallowing pools that tamaraws use to cool themselves. These pools could dry up during extended periods with little or no rainfall.
The prolonged dry spell could also reduce the availability of grasses, shrubs and other vegetation that tamaraws depend on for food, making it more difficult for them to find sufficient nourishment in the wild.
In response, the DENR is pursuing regular monitoring, habitat protection and closer coordination with communities near tamaraw sanctuaries.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned that El Niño is strengthening, with dry conditions expected to persist through the first half of 2027.
The tamaraw, a wild buffalo found only on Mindoro Island, continues to face threats from habitat loss, forest conversion and illegal poaching.
De los Reyes called on residents and other stakeholders to help protect the species and its habitat, emphasizing the shared responsibility of Filipinos, particularly those living in Mindoro, to ensure its survival.
“Magtulungan po tayo upang masiguro ang pagdami pa ng Tamaraw,” he said.
He also recognized international organizations for providing funding and technical expertise to support ongoing research and conservation initiatives.
De los Reyes said collective action is necessary to ensure that future generations can continue to see tamaraws thriving in the wild.
Photo courtesy of WWF
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