The Philippine Native Trees program advances native tree conservation and appreciation through four volumes featuring Philippine native tree species, two series of children’s books, and the Garden of Indigenous Forest Trees (GIFT), which is home to 125 native species.
The Philippine Native Trees Books were written to help gardeners, landscapers, and pertinent government offices in their choices of trees for urban areas. Though there are other, more technically written books on this subject, the project team decided to introduce our native trees with a personal touch. We requested known and not-too-well-known botanical aficionados to share their experiences about their favorite trees. It is our hope that the light manner of presentation will draw more Filipinos to the joy of planting and nurturing our very own.
Program Leader: Imelda P. Sarmiento
The Publications
Philippine Native Trees 404: “Rooted & Rising”
Published 2026
Featuring 183 species, 266 sibling species, 2,332 photos, 63 families, 150 voices, 980 pages, in one powerful volume… Inspired by the legacy of Leonard L. Co and Oscar M. Lopez, brought to life by scientific editors Jayson A. Mansibang, M. Sc., and Lillian Jennifer V. Rodriguez, Ph.D., and shaped by a community of researchers, writers, and photographers…This work stands as both a record and a call to protect our natural heritage.
Philippine Native Trees 303: “Up Close and Personal”
Published 2018
Featuring 145 species
Philippine Native Trees 202: “Up Close and Personal”
Published 2015
Featuring 123 species
Philippine Native Trees 101: “Up Close and Personal”
Published 2012
Featuring 103 species
Children’s Books
PNT Children’s Books: Series 2
Published 2024
PNT Children’s Books: Series 1
Published 2020
Garden of Indigenous Forest Trees (GIFT)
The Garden of Indigenous Forest Trees or GIFT at Regina RICA in Tanay, Rizal, has 125 species of indigenous trees that were grouped together by family with individual tree markers for educational purposes.
Unveiling of Garden of Indigenous Forest Trees lovingly dedicated to Dr. Oscar M. Lopez, Chairman Emeritus, Lopez Holdings Corporation
July 16, 2017
Ceremonial Groundbreaking at Regina Rica, Tanay, Rizal
October 1, 2017
Celebrating Season of Creation, Regina Rica
The Garden of Indigenous Trees after eight years of growth and restoration
