The wooden nature sculpture called Kanlungan ng Bundok Makiling, was recently featured in an exhibit showcasing the creativity of the undergraduate students of UP Los Baños taking the environmental interpretation as part of their class requirements. Guided by their instructor, Professor Rogelio T. Andrada II, the exhibit, entitled “Richness, Remembrance, Resilience” was conceptualized to tell the story of the transformation of a natural heritage into a cultural icon.
This exhibit was particularly timely, as it coincided with the 114th anniversary of the Mount Makiling Forest Reserve. It became a significant part of the celebration, aptly named Maki-Gunita.
In 2014, one of the UPLB heritage trees was toppled by typhoon Glenda. The teak (Tectona grandis) tree’s trunk which measured about a meter in diameter was the source of wood that was used for the sculpture. Masterfully crafted by Jeff B. Cagandahan, a Paete, Laguna wood carving artisan, Kanlungan ng Bundok Makiling showcases the valuable resources that the watersheds of Mount Makiling support.
The exhibit runs from November 19-22, 2024 at the hallway of the Institute of Renewable Natural Resources. The opening of the exhibit was graced by the Director of the Institute, Professor Marco A. Galang and the Director of the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems, Dr. Lerma SJ. Maldia, who gladly supported this initiative by lending Kanlungan ng Bundok Makiling to the students.
By RTAndrada II
Photo by: MLPutian and KPGonzalvo
