The Mount Makiling Forest Reserve (MMFR) begins the new year as it opened on January 3, 2026 with a bustling start-up, welcoming a group of 70 tourists. They aimed to start the year strong by physically challenging and immersing themselves in the reinvigorating environment of the mountain. MMFR served as a venue for their reflection, contemplating what they have gone through for the past year, hopeful for a better year, and bracing themselves for anything they will face while drawing inspiration from nature. This highlighted the vital role the MMFR plays for the people as a space for environmental awareness, mental and physical wellness, and in fostering human-nature connections through sustainable tourism management. (Article by For. AT Fajardo, photo courtesy of Rescuekidz)