The aftermath of Typhoon Kristine, which struck on 24 October 2024, left visible damage to the Mariang Makiling Trail (MMT), Mount Makiling Forest Reserve ASEAN Heritage Park (MMFR AHP). In response, the Patrol and Monitoring Team (PRU staff) of the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems (MCME) promptly assessed the extent of the destruction.
On 29 October 2024, the team conducted patrols along the MMT to document and evaluate the trail’s condition. Key observations included: Moderate landslide at Station 3, Severe damage near Permanent Field Laboratory Area (PFLA) 2, and Impact on forest vegetation.
Several forest tree species, including young, mature, and old-growth trees, were uprooted or severely damaged. Among the hardest hit was Instia bijuga (Colebr.) Kunzte, a critical species in the ecosystem.
Three weeks later, a collaborative clean-up activity, aptly named Maki-Linis, was organized as part of the week-long anniversary celebration of MMFR. This initiative brought together various organizations. The Tactical Operations Group 4 (TOG 4) Philippine Air Force, OPENRO-Cavite, Makiling Eco-guide and RescueKidz, Barangay Bagong Silang 4Ps, Students, and MCME Staff participated in the clean-up drive on 20 November 2024 and were united to restore the MMT.
The clean-up operation spanned from Station 1 to Station 11, showcasing the collective dedication to preserving the trail’s ecological and recreational value. This collaborative effort symbolized a shared commitment to the conservation and resilience of MMFR in the face of natural challenges.
The typhoon’s impact highlights the vulnerability of natural reserves like Mount Makiling to extreme weather events. However, the rapid response and strong community support demonstrate resilience and a shared responsibility for conservation.
This event underscores the importance of regular monitoring and the active involvement of stakeholders in maintaining the ecological and recreational value of the MMT. The recovery process not only restores the trail but also strengthens the bond between nature and the community that protects it.
By GJEsguerra & MLPutian
Photos by PRU Staff, MLPutian, AMasa
