Philippines' ancient balete guardians: Witnesses of time and resilience

I was just wandering around the vast greenery here in Tagaytay, where I live, when I found myself scrolling through Facebook and landing on a group called Pinoy History. One post in particular caught my attention, it was about some of the oldest trees in the country.

- By MILLIE MANAHAN

It got me thinking. These trees have stood for hundreds of years, through storms and changes we can only imagine. And yet, here we are, facing floods and heavy rains more often than before. Maybe it's a sign that we need to take better care of what's left—and plant more—so future generations can enjoy the same shade and shelter we have today.

So, upon researching, in the lush landscapes of the Philippines, a few ancient balete trees—quiet sentinels of centuries—stand not only as natural marvels but also as living archives, telling tales of survival, folklore, and ecological wisdom. Among them, the balete in OISCA Farm, Canlaon City and the "Millennium Tree" of Aurora star as cultural icons, beckoning us to marvel—and to reflect.

Tucked deep within the quiet grounds of OISCA Farm in Lumapao, Canlaon City, stands a living monument 60 people to encircle the base, and its canopy stretches far beyond, like arms reaching to the sky.

Step inside its root labyrinth, and you're enveloped by a cathedral of wood, shadows, and soft light, a secret world centuries in the making.