By I. Inojales | 01:11 PM June 20, 2026
LOAY, Bohol — Efforts to help save one of the Philippines’ most endangered mammals continue in Bohol through a captive-breeding program at Candawon Wildlife Farm in Barangay Candabong, Loay.
The wildlife farm is playing a key role in the conservation of the endangered Visayan spotted deer, also known as the Philippine spotted deer, through a breeding initiative aimed at increasing the species’ population and ensuring its long-term survival.
In 2023, the farm received two adult female spotted deer from the Silliman University Center for Tropical Conservation Studies under a breeding loan agreement designed to strengthen conservation efforts for the rare species.
The Visayan spotted deer is considered one of the country’s most threatened mammals, with remaining wild populations largely confined to the islands of Negros and Panay. Habitat loss, hunting, and human encroachment have contributed to the species’ decline over the years.
Conservationists believe captive-breeding programs such as the one in Loay are crucial in preserving genetic diversity, increasing deer numbers, and raising public awareness about wildlife protection.
The initiative highlights Bohol’s growing role in biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered Philippine wildlife.
