The Philippines Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PBCFI) has recognized nine-year-old Cebuana Gail Lim for raising P20,000 in support of conservation efforts for the critically endangered Cebu Flowerpecker (Dicaeum quadricolor).
According to PBCFI, Gail’s conservation journey began when she was just 7 years old after learning “a heartbreaking truth” that the Cebu Flowerpecker had even fewer remaining individuals than the Philippine Eagle. “Instead of standing by, she decided to act,” the foundation said.
Over the past two years, Gail, with the support of her parents, collaborated with Cebuano artists who shared her passion for wildlife protection. Together, they co-organized art workshops, created custom merchandise and helped raise awareness about Cebu’s iconic endemic bird.
Her efforts resulted in P20,000 in funds, which she donated in full to the Nug-as Forest Wardens (KMYLBNA), the community-based forest protectors who safeguard the largest remaining habitat of the Cebu Flowerpecker in Alcoy.
PBCFI said the donation will support the wardens, whom it described as “the local community protectors who guard the largest remaining habitat of the Cebu Flowerpecker in Alcoy.” The organization added that Gail’s contribution will help the frontliners “who brave the trails daily to keep the species safe from extinction.”
Reflecting on Gail’s efforts, PBCFI said, “Her story reminds us all that we are never too young to make a difference,” as it celebrated the young conservation advocate “for nature and biodiversity.” / JAT