Situated in the center of Manila, Arroceros Forest Park, the country’s capital’s last lung, is a lush haven amidst the busy, and often sweltering cityscape.
Its value extends beyond aesthetics, symbolizing a rich history and acting as a beloved refuge for locals seeking respite from Manila’s heat.
Why it serves as a refuge
Compared to metropolitan areas, forests offer a cooler microclimate because of the shade and absorption provided by the trees and plants, which reduces the outside temperature by several degrees.
In Arroceros’ case, the forest reduced the heat index by 2 to 4 degrees.
More than 8,000 plants and more than 60 different species of trees may be found in the Arroceros Forest Park, which contributes to cleaner, healthier air.
Although the park was primarily designed to use it for recreational and educational purposes, it was also constructed to help lessen urban heat island effects.
“The heat index continuously rising upwards and other environmental concerns make it very vital to residents and visitors alike to understand how valuable it is to preserve and nurture this heritage site. This can be achieved by encouraging initiatives aimed at conserving biodiversity within the park so as to improve the quality of life for the residents of Manila hence reducing effects of climate change,” Manila Parks Development Office (PDO) Director Giovanni Evangelista said.
Tucked inside a city
Amugis, apatot, bagras, balete, bignay kalabaw, dao, dita, hauili, is-is, malapapaya, molave, narra, sampaloc, talisay, tuai, and yakal are among the natural trees found in the Arroceros Forest Park.
Birdwatchers have also reported seeing both native and migratory species in the forest.
Arroceros, which underwent rehabilitation and reopened in February 2022, has an elevated boardwalk to keep people off the dry leaf-covered ground and away from potential predators like pythons and rat snakes.
In addition, there is a koi pond, a yoga or meditation space, a fountain, and an esplanade that faces the Pasig River and also provides views of the Quiapo neighborhood as well as the Quezon and Ayala Bridges.
