For. Alexis John T. Fajardo, Forest Technician II
While April 1st is often associated with playful pranks, this year it also marked a significant moment of reflection and celebration—the end of Ramadan for our Muslim brothers and sisters. Remarkably, it was also the day when 33 members of the Philippine Native Plants Conservation Society, Inc. (PNPCSI) visited the Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) in Mount Makiling Forest Reserve ASEAN Heritage Park (MMFR AHP), Los Baños, Laguna.
The group was warmly welcomed by For. Roberto P. Cereno, Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs, UPLB and former Deputy Director of MBG. Fondly known as “VC Robby,” For. Cereno invited PNPCSI as part of a collaborative project under the UPLB PASEO Program, in line with the ongoing development of the Tourism Guidebook for the area.
During their visit, discussions also centered on future partnerships between PNPCSI and UPLB—particularly the establishment of a themed garden and conservatory dedicated to Philippine native plants within the MBG. This initiative reinforces the garden’s role as an important ex-situ conservation area, dedicated to preserving the country’s rich plant biodiversity.
The visit concluded with a scenic trek to Mariang Makiling Trail Station 14, where the group witnessed the blooming of the Malaboo scientifically known as Rafflesia panchoana, a beautiful and symbolic reminder of nature’s resilience and beauty.
Photos by: RPCereno, AALimpiada, JATFajardo
