Senator says bird strikes pose threat to aircraft safety

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MANILA, Philippines — During the Senate committee on public services hearing on July 2, committee chair Sen. Raffy Tulfo raised alarm over what he said was the increasing number of bird strike incidents in the country, warning that these pose a serious threat to the safety of airline passengers.

A bird strike occurs when a bird collides with an aircraft, such as an airplane or helicopter. These incidents can cause significant damage, including engine failure, shattered windshields and damage to other parts of the aircraft. If not properly addressed, they may put passengers’ safety at risk.

“This is not about expecting the worst; it is about preparing for what we already know is possible. Before migration season starts in September 2026 until February 2027, we need to be very ready. Some of the reasons are literally right beside our airport: the Las Piñas, Parañaque, Wetland Park. Home to around 5,000 birds daily. This is just two to three kilometers from NAIA runway 6. Our busiest airport,” he said.

According to available data, a total of 953 bird strike incidents were recorded nationwide in 2025, while 250 incidents have already been reported during the first half of 2026.

Likewise, Tulfo also urged the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to monitor and prohibit pigeon racing near airports.

DILG representative Noel Sala said the department would issue a memorandum circular directing local government units to implement measures to prevent bird strikes.

The senator also proposed studying the possible relocation of the bird sanctuary in Las Piñas-Parañaque.

But the area is an internationally protected wetland and ecopark that commercial developers have long wanted to reclaim. Environment groups say there is no such thing as relocating the wetland.