The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) designated a balete tree in Pasig City–which is thought to be at least 70 years old–as a heritage tree, according to the city government.
Michael Drake Matias, Regional Director of DENR-NCR, stated during the declaration ceremony that it is also the 42nd tree in the NCR to achieve the status.
The balete in the Rainforest Park in Maybunga is one of three heritage trees in Pasig City that are over a century old. The other two are acacia trees in Rizal High School and the Pasig Catholic Cemetery.
Environmental marker
A marker was unveiled emphasizing the tree's historical and environmental significance as well as its resilience to urban transformation over time.
Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto said that the tree is a reminder for Pasig residents to protect nature and conserve the environmental gifts of the city.
“Sana po itong heritage tree na ito at ang marker po na ito ay maging paalala sa bawat isang Pasigueño na dapat nating patuloy na protektahan ang ating kalikasan at ang ating kasaysayan,” Sotto said.
Two employees of Maybunga Rainforest Park demonstrated the strength of the tree at the declaration event, noting that it has withstood numerous storms without even breaking a branch.
What makes a tree heritage?
Through their Heritage Tree project, the regional offices of DENR determine the distinction.
They also take into account the historical value of the tree to its surrounds as they are based on nominations from both individuals and communities.
The Heritage Tree project seeks to coordinate community and institutional efforts to preserve old and mature trees in Metro Manila. It concentrates on trees that are at least 50 centimeters above ground and have a minimum girth of 100 cm. These trees can be old, rare, native, or endemic.
