FEB.

7, 2012 DATE

NR # 2672B
REF. NO.

Waling-waling to be another national flower

The House of Representatives has approved on second reading a proposed measure declaring the Waling-waling orchid as a national flower of the Philippines alongside with Sampaguita. House Bill 5655 was authored by Rep. Mylene Garcia-Albano (2nd District, Davao City), vice chairperson of the House Committees on National Cultural Communities and on Reforestation. Garcia-Albano said the Waling-waling is not only indigenous but also endemic to the Philippines compared to the Sampaguita, a native plant from India and Arabia that was declared the Philippine national flower under Proclamation No. 652 on February 1, 1934. Waling-waling, the countrys best orchid variety, scientifically known as Vanda Sanderiana, thrives in the tropical forest of Mount Apo in Davao and Zamboanga Del Sur, according to Garcia-Albano. The Waling-waling plant grows on tall diptherocarps but is never known to be a parasite. It lives on treetops reaching for the light of the sun, making it truly symbolic of the Filipino traits and characteristics, Garcia-Albano said. Garcia-Albano said the Waling-waling, touted as the Queen of Philippine Flowers, is very popular in Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong and Hawaii, making it one of the worlds famous orchids. During the recent public hearing on the bill, the officials of the National Museum said the selection of Sampaguita as a national flower was not based on endemism but its historical significance, plus its popularity, ornamental value, fragrance and the roles it plays in the legends and traditions of the Filipino people. The bill was co-authored by Reps. Angelo Palmones (PL, Agham) and Marlyn Primicias-Agabas (6th District, Pangasinan), Chairperson of the House Committee on Revision of Laws, which reported it out for plenary action. (30) sb