Arroceros Forest Park
The Last Lung of Manila
Located in the center of Manila, Philippines, Arroceros Forest Park stands as a testament to urban resilience and the enduring power of nature. Spanning over 2 hectares, this green oasis represents a vital sanctuary amidst the bustling city.
Established in 1993, the area evolved into a forest park due to the efforts of the local government and various environmental advocates. It was rehabilitated in 2022 and is now considered a protected area by the government of Manila.
Arroceros Forest Park is home to over 30 species of trees, including both native and endemic varieties. These serve as an important feature of the city by providing fresh air to the neighbouring Lawton area, which is traversed by many commuters.
How to Get There
Arroceros Forest Park is located behind the Manila Metropolitan Theatre in Manila. The park is also close to the LRT-1 Central station, and is also walking distance from both SM City Manila and the Manila City Hall. Just register at the entrance to gain access to the forest park.
History
The Arroceros Forest Park has a rich history dating wayback during the Spanish colonial period. The area occupied by the park was a commercial center known as the Parian de Arroceros. In the 19 th century, it was the site of a tobacco factory. During the American rule, it was used as a military garrison and after the World War II, the barracks were converted into the headquarters of the Department of Education, Culture and Sport. The park was established in 1993 and was rehabilitated in February 2022 as the Arroceros Forest Park. It is considered an important feature of the city in providing fresh air to the Lawton area, which is traversed by many commuters from other cities in the region.
Do's and Don'ts
Arroceros Forest Park has a set of rules and regulations that must be followed if people are visiting. Some of the rules are as follows:
- Food, alcoholic beverages, vapes, pets, littering, and loud music are prohibited
- Feeding the koi fish in the pond is not allowed
- Activities inside the park must be coordinated with the administration office
- Anyone who causes damage to property or violates the rules are penalized
Conservation Efforts
The City Ordinance 8607 designating the Arroceros Forest Park as a permanent forest park instead of an ordinary city property. Under this ordinance, cutting of trees, dumping of waste, and excavation is prohibited within the area.
The park administration also aims to replace the exotic species with indigenous species of the trees through tree planting activities to further enhance biodiversity in the area and lead to a healthier urban ecosystem.
Indigenous Trees
The forest park is home to 32 tree species and 19 families recorded. In addition to trees, 43 flora species belonging to 24 families identified. The area contains 16 native species namely: Amugis, Apatot, Bagras, Balete, Bignay Kalabaw, Dao, Dita, Hauili, Is-is, Malapapaya, Molave, Narra, Sampaloc, Talisay, Tuai and Yakal.
How to Get Involved
Individuals can contribute to the conservation of the forest park by following its rules and regulations, such as refraining from littering, excavating, or harming trees and plants. During their visits, they can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, enjoying the tranquility and wildlife that the park offers. Additionally, they can support our advocacy for environmental protection by sharing their experiences and posting about the park’s significance on their social media accounts, helping to raise awareness and promote its preservation.
Learn More
To learn more about Arroceros Forest Park, you can visit their Facebook Page by clicking the button below!
Gallery
For more details, contact us at
forestsofmanila@gmail.com