From hunter, to guardian: the inspiring journey of Benjamin Tacud and the fight to save the dulungan

Although our survey location was in an open area, it was surrounded by dense, closed forests, home to various endemic and endangered species. This location also provided us with a sweeping view of the lush greenery around us.

Initially, the mountains were blanketed by fog, but as the sun began its slow rise on the horizon, the mist gently lifted, revealing vibrant green slopes. The cold began to fade as the morning light painted the scene with a warm yellow-orange glow, transforming the cool, muted tones into a radiant golden landscape. As this transformation unfolded, the songs of different birds echoed through the forest, creating a vivid atmosphere. It was a truly magical moment, as the forest came alive with the sounds and colours of the morning.

August is celebrated as Dulungan Month in the province of Antique, where the dulungan, also known as the rufous-headed hornbill, holds the title of the provincial bird. This endangered species, found only in the forests of Negros and Panay Islands, is facing a rapid decline due to hunting and habitat loss. As a result, most of the remaining population is now concentrated on Panay Island, particularly in the Central Panay Mountain Ranges (CPMR).

The dulungan plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and is often referred to as the "farmer of the forest" due to its role in seed dispersal. It also serves as a key indicator of a healthy forest. To raise awareness and protect these critical birds, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office of Antique organized the synchronised Dulungan Count on August 23, 2024, underscoring the importance of preserving this species and its habitat for future generations.

The Dulungan Count, supported by various NGOs, including the Philippine Initiative for Conservation of the Environment and the People Inc. (PhilinCon), took place across several towns in Antique, focusing on the CPMR. PhilinCon was entrusted with leading the count in the town of Pandan, selecting the mountains of Maadios as the key survey site. Among our team was Mr. Benjamin “Jun” Tacud Jr., one of PhilinCon’s longest-serving research guides. His enthusiasm was evident as he eagerly anticipated participating in the count and hoped for a chance to spot the Dulungan once more. “It’s been decades since I last saw these birds, and I’m hoping to see them again this time,” he shared. His excitement was unmistakable as we prepared to begin.

The story of Benjamin Tacud exemplifies a remarkable transformation from hunter to one of the most experienced field researchers in the area. His journey into conservation began in 1996 when he met Dr. Eberhard Curio, a renowned German scientist from Ruhr University Bochum, during the early days of the Philippine Endemic Conservation Project (PECP) in Northwest Panay. Initially starting as a porter, Jun was already deeply knowledgeable about the region’s wildlife and terrain. Recognizing this expertise, Dr. Curio saw potential beyond his role and offered him the opportunity to work as a research guide. Jun's profound understanding of local wildlife proved invaluable, marking the beginning of his remarkable transformation.

Assigned to the Sibaliw Research Station, Tacud spent years guiding and assisting students, researchers, and birders through the lush and challenging terrain. His expertise, patience, and deep connection with the forest made him a trusted companion in the effort to study and conserve Northwest Panay’s biodiversity. Many students and researchers, both local and international, owe their successful research endeavors to his skilled guidance. Today, he continues to work for PhilinCon in the Darwin Project as a field surveyor, maintaining his vital role in conservation.

At 7:00am the synchronised dulungan count began. Our hearts raced as we anticipated the arrival of the dulungan, hoping to witness these magnificent birds soaring through their habitat. Minutes after finishing our first point count, we spotted a flock of nine dulungans in flight, heading downstream along the Panakuyan River. After several minutes, we saw another individual dulungan flying upstream in the opposite direction. We were filled with joy and awe at that moment, witnessing these incredible birds still soaring freely through the forest. For Jun, however, the experience was even more intimate and profound.

“Seeing them again after decades gives me goosebumps,” he said. “These birds have already been extirpated in the Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park, yet they continue to thrive here.” He reflected on how he had finally come to understand why the birders he guided in the past experienced such deep joy when they encountered the birds they longed to see—and why some even hugged him in excitement—because he now felt that same joy himself.

As we stood there, captivated by the beauty surrounding us, we felt a profound connection to nature—a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation and the delicate balance of ecosystems. We completed our survey with the dulungan proudly marked on our list, but no one was happier than Jun. “This has truly made my day,” he said. “It brings me immense joy, and I can go home feeling fulfilled.”

With nearly three decades at PhilinCon, Benjamin Jun Tacud Jr. has become an irreplaceable figure in the conservation community, inspiring both young researchers and seasoned scientists. His remarkable transformation from a hunter to a protector of the very species he once pursued exemplifies the true spirit of conservation. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of knowledge and dedication, illustrating how lives can change in profound ways when given the right opportunity.