THE loss of habitat and other factors are pushing many of the country’s unique “flora and fauna” to the brink of extinction.

Without doubt, the alarming situation worries concerned government offices and agencies and even the private sector.

That’s why the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) wants to raise P100 million to save six species.

These are the Philippine eagle, tamaraw, dugong, Philippine cockatoo, “pawikan” or marine turtle and the Palawan pangolin.

DENR said the six species “not only are they important on their own, but they are also important for the survival of other species in the ecosystem.”

We share the view of the DENR that the loss of habitat is driven largely by deforestation, urbanization and destructive agricultural practices.

It will be recalled that the DENR, under Secretary Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, launched last October its “Save from Extinction” program.

Under the said program, the DENR partnered with SM Supermalls and Banco de Oro to facilitate donations for its conservation efforts.

Of course, everybody agrees that the DENR needs additional funding for its conservation efforts.

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