The Philippines has been named as one of the five “migratory species champions” in the world for its exemplary contribution in the global effort to protect migratory animals, particularly the whale shark or butanding, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said. Also recognized by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) were the city of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, the European Commission, Germany and Monaco. The awarding ceremony, dubbed “Champions’ Night,” was held last Sunday and forms part of the 12th Session of the Conference of Parties to CMS (COP12), which is ongoing at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

Villanueva, R., & Marcelo, E. (2017, October 26). Phl named one of the 5 champions for migratory species. The Philippine Star, p. B5.