On 22 November 2024, the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems (MCME) hosted Maki-Pasyal, a fun walk activity led by Forester Alexis John Fajardo. This event was a highlight of the weeklong celebration marking the 114th Anniversary of MMFR for it offers FREE Entrance Fee to all visitors from 7-11 AM. It aimed to bring people closer to nature while honoring the legacy of the MMFR ASEAN Heritage Park.
The activity began with a prayer for guidance and safety, invoking blessings for the participants and the event. Forester Fajardo warmly welcomed the attendees and shared the significance of the program, emphasizing its role in the anniversary celebration from 18–23 November 2024, which featured diverse activities to pay tribute to MMFR.
Participants from all walks of life bathe and embraced the lush, verdant forest of Mount Makiling. The walk from Station 1 (Checkpoint) to Station 11 (Agila Base) along the Mariang Makiling Trail provided an immersive experience of MMFR’s natural beauty. Surrounded by the forest’s rich biodiversity, the participants felt rejuvenated and invigorated as they traversed the scenic trail.
To sustain their energy and enhance the experience, participants were treated to trail foods such as boiled eggs, bananas, sweets, and water. These refreshments helped them power through the walk, making the activity not just a physical challenge but a joyful celebration of health, community, and the environment.
Maki-Pasyal exemplified the essence of the 114th MMFR Anniversary. It allowed participants to connect with nature, appreciate the forest’s vitality, and celebrate the enduring legacy of Mount Makiling Forest Reserve. The fun walk was a testament to the timeless beauty of MMFR and its significance in promoting environmental awareness and well-being.
By AJTFajardo
Photos by MSCanceran, AMasa, MLPutian
