Part 5/13:
In Manila, heritage trees—such as one located in the middle of a busy road—are protected by legal declarations acknowledging their irreplaceable value. Conversely, struggles to preserve larger green spaces like the 2.2-hectare Arrocero's Forest Park exemplify political will’s critical role; despite proposals to develop the area, city leaders have refused to allow construction on this last green lung of Manila, which hosts endangered tree species and attracts diverse birdlife.
These initiatives demonstrate a broader understanding that integrating nature into urban development isn’t just environmentally necessary but essential for residents’ quality of life, climate resilience, and ecological balance.