By Kenneth Marcos 
Just after sunrise, the steady hum of aircraft mixed with the soft calls of wild birds circling the edges of Ninoy Aquino International Airport. For airport workers, this is a normal soundscape. But for environmental teams, it is a reminder that even in the country’s busiest gateway, wildlife continues to survive and must be closely protected.
The Protected Area Management Office of the Las Piñas–Parañaque Wetland Park conducted its fourth quarter bird monitoring inside NAIA this week. The activity was carried out in coordination with the Airport Ground Operations Safety Division, the Metropolitan Environmental Office–South, and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office of Parañaque.
Teams walked through designated monitoring zones around the airport, recording the number and species of birds present. The goal is to track changes in bird populations, identify possible risks to aircraft operations, and protect the wetland ecosystem that sits beside the airport runway.
The Las Piñas–Parañaque Wetland Park is an important bird habitat in Metro Manila. It serves as a feeding and resting area for both resident species and migratory birds that travel thousands of kilometers along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway. Because the wetland is near NAIA, regular surveys are necessary to ensure a safe balance between wildlife and aviation.
Officials explained that bird monitoring helps reduce the chances of bird strikes, which can damage aircraft and endanger passengers. At the same time, the collected data guides conservation programs aimed at preserving the remaining wetlands in the National Capital Region.
Environmental officers noted that rapid urban development continues to shrink natural spaces in Metro Manila, making protected areas even more crucial. By observing bird behavior and habitat conditions, agencies can recommend measures such as vegetation control, waste management, and habitat protection to support both safety and biodiversity.
Local authorities also stressed that caring for wetlands benefits nearby communities. Wetlands help control floods, improve air quality, and provide environmental education opportunities for students and residents. Bird monitoring is only one part of a broader effort to keep these natural defenses healthy.
As Metro Manila grows denser and busier, experts say cooperation among government agencies, local communities, and airport authorities will play a key role in protecting the region’s last remaining natural habitats. The quarterly monitoring is expected to continue, ensuring that wildlife and human activity can coexist within the country’s main aviation hub.
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