Yes, collecting feathers in the Philippines is legal only under strict conditions. The Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (Republic Act No. 9147) governs this activity, requiring permits from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for non-endangered species. Feathers from protected birds, such as Philippine eagles or hornbills, are prohibited without special authorization. Local government units may impose additional ordinances, particularly in ecotourism zones or indigenous cultural areas.
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in Philippines
- DENR Permit Requirement: A Wildlife Gratuitous Permit (WGP) or Commercial Wildlife Farm Permit is mandatory for collecting feathers from non-protected species. Applications must specify quantity, purpose (e.g., cultural, scientific), and source location.
- Protected Species Ban: Feathers from species listed under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09 (e.g., Philippine eagle, Philippine cockatoo) are strictly off-limits without a conservation-based exception.
- Local Ordinances: Municipal or provincial governments may enforce stricter rules, such as seasonal bans in migratory bird habitats or penalties for unauthorized collection in ancestral domains.
Violations may result in fines up to ₱1 million, imprisonment, or both, per RA 9147. The DENR’s 2026 compliance framework further tightens monitoring via digital permit tracking and community-based patrols. Indigenous groups must also comply with the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (RA 8371) when feathers are sourced from traditional lands.