Attendees and participants of the WMBD Reception © Philippine Embassy
On 14 May, the Philippine Embassy in Seoul and East Asian–Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP) proudly co-hosted its World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) reception. WMBD is a global initiative that raises awareness of migratory bird conservation and fosters international cooperation to safeguard birds, their habitats, and the livelihoods of people depend on them. Celebrated twice a year to align with migration cycles in both hemispheres, WMBD underscores the importance of protecting migratory species and the ecosystems they depend on. Prior to this event, the EAAFP co-hosted WMBD receptions with the New Zealand Embassy in Seoul in 2024 and 2025, continuing its collaboration with diplomatic partners to strengthen public awareness and engagement on migratory waterbird conservation.
This year’s theme, “Every Bird Counts: Your Observations Matter!”, highlighted the essential role of monitoring and documenting bird species across the flyway, reinforcing the genuine collaboration and deep connection between migratory birds and the communities that live along their routes.
Building on the momentum of the 12th Meeting of Partners (MOP12) held in Cebu, Philippines last November 2025, the Philippine Embassy successfully launched the WMBD reception to convene members of the embassies in the Republic of Korea, international organisations including EAAFP partner organisations, academic institutions, corporations including NAVER, and current EAAFP sponsors—Korea South-East Power Co. Yeongheung Division (KOEN) and POSCO INTERNATIONAL—as well as researchers and academics engaged in biodiversity, climate action, sustainability, and migratory bird conservation.
Representatives from POSCO INTERNATIONAL (left) and Korea South-East Power Co. Yeongheung Division (right) with the ambassador of the Philippines and EAAFP Chief Executive © POSCO INTERNATIONAL
Representatives of EAAFP Secretariat, Dr. Don Han and NAVER © EAAFP
Her Excellency Ambassador Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez opened the evening with warm and inspiring remarks, highlighting the Philippines’ commitment to advancing conservation efforts along the flyway.
Her Excellency Ambassador Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez © Philippine Embassy
“Their journey reminds us of a simple but powerful truth: nature does not recognize borders. The protection of migratory birds cannot be achieved by one country alone. It requires cooperation across governments, scientists, local communities, civil society, and international partners. For the Philippines, this is not only an environmental issue. It is also a matter of sustainable development, food security, climate resilience, cultural heritage, and community livelihood,” the Ambassador said.
EAAFP Chief Executive Ms. Jennifer George © Philippine Embassy
Ms. Jennifer George, Chief Executive of EAAFP secretariat, delivered a compelling message on the importance of collective action and community participation. She spotlighted the remarkable journey of the Great Knot, a migratory bird that traverses the East Asian–Australasian Flyway (EAAF) and makes vital stopovers in both the Philippines and the Republic of Korea. Ms. George highlighted the need for coordinated conservation and monitoring efforts, reminding participants that every bird, every route, every observation reveals the true connection of the flyway.
‘A bird was mentioned. Connection was made. New pathway was found. This is why every observation matters,’ Ms. George emphasised.
The evening was enriched with captivating performances of Filipino folk dances: Tinikling, showcasing the rhythmic bamboo poles, and Itik-itik, a lively dance mimicking the flapping wings of ducks. These cultural highlights beautifully connected the celebration of migratory birds with Filipino heritage and the broader East Asian–Australasian Flyway.
Itik Itik dance performance © Philippine Embassy
Tinikling dance performance with EAAFP Chief Executive Ms. Jennifer George © Philippine Embassy
Staff of the Philippine Embassy and EAAFP Secretariat © Philippine Embassy
Deputy Head of Mission Ms. Sarah McDowell from the New Zealand Embassy (far left), Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Alexei Kral from the Embassy of the United States America (second left), and the Chief Executive and Deputy Chief Executive of EAAFP Secretariat (right) © Philippine Embassy
The ambassador of the Philippines, EAAFP Chief executive, and EAAFP Programme Officer looking at the exhibition panels © EAAFP
Chargé d’Affaires / Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Mr. Myo Myint Maung and EAAFP Chief Executive © EAAFP
The reception concluded with renewed determination to protect migratory birds and their habitats, reaffirming the importance of international cooperation in conservation. The success of the event was made possible through the contributions of many partners, with special gratitude extended to KOEN for sponsoring the reception. Above all, heartfelt appreciation goes to the Philippine Embassy for its active and enthusiastic hosting, continuing the legacy of MOP12 in Cebu.
