Drivers of extinction risks and shortfalls across terrestrial vertebrates in the Philippine global biodiversity hotspot

The Philippines is a biodiversity hotspot with a rich variety of terrestrial vertebrate species, many of which are endemic and under threat from environmental changes and unsustainable activities. Effective conservation action is urgently needed; however, progress is hampered by persistent knowledge shortfalls and uneven research efforts. In this study, we assessed the extinction risks, threats, and knowledge gaps of 1,258 Philippine terrestrial vertebrate species. We found that at least 15%–23% of the species are at risk of extinction, particularly endemic amphibians and mammals, primarily driven by habitat loss and overexploitation. However, reptiles remain markedly underrepresented in research and their true threat status is likely underestimated. Our findings highlight historical research biases that continue to perpetuate conservation inequities, leaving vulnerable and data-deficient species and areas overlooked. Filling these gaps with balanced research investment, expanded monitoring, and better data sharing is crucial for informed conservation. We recommend using integrative tools and remote sensing to tackle major biodiversity shortfalls in the Philippines. Integrating collaboration, citizen science, targeted surveys, and genetic research can address these data gaps. Our study offers a strategic framework for guiding national conservation priorities and safeguarding the country’s rapidly vanishing wildlife heritage, emphasizing that, without informed action, the Philippines risks losing its unique biodiversity.