MANILA, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay has adopted a 7-year-old Philippine eagle as part of his contribution to protect the environment and the country's national symbol, which is also one of the critically endangered species.
Binay said the adoption is also his way of continuing what former Vice President Noli de Castro did during his term, when he also adopted an eagle and named it "Kabayan."
Unfortunately, the eagle died already.
"I am honored to be given the opportunity to adopt an eagle. This is a simple step in protecting one of our national symbols. I hope that as Filipinos, we will all do our share in protecting not only the Philippine eagle but the environment as well," Binay said.
The vice president named his eagle, "Scout Binay," which symbolizes the country's readiness to face challenges that may come his way.
"Dagdag pa rito ang kahandaan natin na harapin ang bukas kung kaya't akma rin na tawaging scout ang agilang ito. Bawat isa sa atin ay laging handa, handing magsikap, kumilos at magbuklod para matamo an gating adhikain para sa sarili, para sa pamilya at para sa bayan," he added.
Binay gave a check worth P125,000 to the Philippine Eagle Foundation for the expenses that would be incurred for the care of his eagle for one year.