For. Alexis T. Fajardo, Forest Technician II
On 01 October 2025, delegates from the Japan Foundation Manila conducted an ocular inspection of the Makiling Botanic Garden (MBG) as a potential venue for their study and cultural exposure trip. They were warmly welcomed and assisted by Foresters Alexis Fajardo and Angela Limpiada while exploring the vicinity and facilities of the garden.
The visit aimed to assess MBG’s suitability for hosting educational and cultural activities, particularly those inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and the interactive outdoor learning sessions of the “Amazing Nihongo” nature program.
This ocular inspection forms part of the foundation’s flagship initiative, the Japanese Speakers’ Forum in the Philippines 2025, themed “Think Local, Act Global: Let’s Make a Sustainable Community Together.” The event is expected to bring together 12 Filipino and 6 Japanese students, supported by 6 teachers and around 6–10 staff. Through experiential learning, the program seeks to deepen students’ appreciation of biodiversity conservation while fostering cultural exchange and awareness.
Photos by: AALimpiada
