University News

Historic Balete Tree Declared a Heritage Tree

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Members of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) and officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – National Capital Region (DENR - NCR) gathered at the PUP Oval on October 22 to formally proclaim the decades old Balete Tree as its new Heritage Tree.

Located near the Gabriel Silang Building and the Tahanan ng Atleta, adjacent to the PUP Oval, the balete tree (Ficus religiosa L.) is the oldest and largest tree in the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus and stands as the living witness to the University’s growth and transformation over the years.

Standing more than 20 meters and estimated to be more than 50 years old, PUP’s balete tree is the 46th Heritage Tree in Metro Manila.

Symbol of strength, will, and transformation

Dr. Armin S. Coronado, Director of the PUP Research Institute for Science and Technology (RIST), emphasized that the tree embodies the University’s resilience and evolution. Not just a landmark, he said, it is also a symbol of continuity, strength, and the enduring spirit of the Sintang Paaralan.

“For over five decades, the tree has quietly observed the rhythm of University life, from student activism to cultural events, the infrastructure development and academic milestones. So, it stands as a strong symbol of continuity and resilience, representing the collective dedication of past presidents up to the current president and reflecting the University’s enduring spirit rooted in commitment to public service and education,” he stated.

Representing DENR-NCR Regional Executive Director Atty. Michael Drake P. Matias, Production Forest and Management Section Chief, For. Arturo G. Calderon noted that while their Heritage Tree Program aims to identify, protect, and promote historically significant trees, it also hopes to deepen public understanding of the ecological and environmental significance of trees in fighting pollution and climate change.

“Umaasa kami na ang pagkilala ng puno na ito bilang Heritage Tree ay magpa-paalala sa komunidad ng PUP ng kanilang mayamang kasaysayan, magbibigay inspirasyon sa mas malalim na pagpapahalaga sa kalikasan, at magtutulak sa mas maraming programa sa konserbasyon at sustainability.” Calderon added.

(We hope that recognizing this tree as a Heritage Tree will remind the PUP community of their rich history, inspire a deeper appreciation for nature, and encourage more conservation and sustainability programs.)

Commitment to preservation
Organized by RIST in cooperation with the DENR-NCR and the PUP Cultural Heritage Committee, this milestone event was supported by alumni, faculty, student, and union representatives—all of whom pledged their commitment to preserve the legacy of the new Heritage Tree.

The Sintang Paaralan reaffirms its dedication to sustainability and the preservation of both environmental and cultural heritage as stated under the United Nationals Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely No. 4 in Quality Education, No. 11 for Sustainable Cities and Communities, No. 13 in Climate Action, and No. 17 in Partnerships for the Goals. Through this recognition, the University acknowledges the balete tree as both an ecological asset and a cultural symbol.

_{(Note: English translation generated from AI.)}