It is endemic to the Philippines, where its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forests of Basilan and the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Somewhat similar to Yellow-wattled Bulbul, but lacks the crest and the obvious yellow eye-ring.

[6] IUCN has assessed this bird as a near-threatened due to its smaller range.

It is still relatively conmmon but forests in the Philippines have experienced rapid habitat destruction.

Found in the protected area of Pasonanca Natural Park but still continues to experience encroachment.