Invited guest lecturers by the Research and Extension Division of the Institute of Renewable Natural Resources, Reimo Mürgimäe and Marika Kose, from the Estonian University of Life Sciences’ Biological Diversity and Nature Tourism Division, visited the Mariang Makiling Trail (MMT) and Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) within the Mount Makiling Forest Reserve ASEAN Heritage Park (MMFR AHP) on 25 February 2026. As distinguished experts in nature-based tourism, they were guided and toured to the gardens that showcased the science-based management practices, biodiversity conservation efforts, and ecotourism initiatives implemented by the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems (MCME).
Forester Alexis Fajardo, together with the faculty and researchers of the College of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), presented the curated plant collections, forest trails, points of interest in MMFR AHP, restoration sites, and theme gardens at MBG. The tour emphasized the MCME’s established nature-based tourism program, which is integral to the sustainable management of MMFR AHP. This program aims to balance responsible tourism with ecological integrity. Additionally, this collaboration highlights a commitment to strengthening efforts in the sustainable management of natural resources. (Article by For. Alexis Fajardo, photo courtesy of For. Emmanuel Bonifacio Timog)