For. Alexis T. Fajardo, Forest Technician II
Los Baños, Laguna – July 29, 2025 – The Gender Center of the University of the Philippines conducted a meaningful visit to the Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG), reinforcing its commitment to promoting gender sensitivity across the UP community and its affiliated institutions.
The delegation, composed of 14 members including researchers, gender focal persons, and extension service staff, immersed themselves in the lush biodiversity of the Mount Makiling Forest Reserve (MMFR). Surrounded by nature, the group found inspiration and renewal for their advocacy work, recognizing the Gardens as a potential learning site for advancing gender and development (GAD) initiatives.
The visitors were warmly welcomed by Foresters Angela A. Limpiada and Alexis T. Fajardo of the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems (MCME), who led them on a guided tour through the Gardens’ themed sections. These included collections of native and endangered species, showcasing the ecological richness and cultural relevance of the mountain landscape.
The activity not only highlighted the therapeutic and reflective value of green spaces but also opened discussions on how nature-based settings like the MBG can serve as inclusive venues for gender education, empowerment, and advocacy.
