Most of the time, if you are living in the City, you travel for hours to have a wonderful escape from nature. I have been doing that for years too. Whenever I and my officemates wanted a breath of fresh air, we would book a camping or trekking in the nearest tourist spot, Tanay Rizal. However, this past week, while on my way to the Walled City for the first time, I got lost. Yet, it was alright as I discovered this Forest Park right in the heart of Manila! I was surprised at the same time and appreciated the effort of the local government. Considering the location, the City and the private owner will undoubtedly earn more if they sell or lease for business purposes. BUT, they decided to protect this 2.2 hectares of land and planted more trees. Also, add some structures for the convenience of tourists and anyone who would love to visit. Before I forget, there is no ENTRANCE FEE!.
The Arroceros Forest Park, located at 659 A Antonio Villegas St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila, just a few steps away from Central station of Manila Light Rail Transit.
Before going in, you only need to log your details in the record book of the security guard. After? You may now start to wander around.
Near the entrance, you will find this brief background and the park's purpose.
After, on both sides, you will several benches designed far enough with each for privacy. The weather was windy yet with the sun's scorching heat, plus just past one in the afternoon. Outside, it was humid, but here it was different! I can hear nature sounds as the twigs of the trees dance in the rhythm of the wind. Crickets are humming, and birds are singing. Also colder!
A perfect place to meditate or bring a book and read, just like what the lady is doing there!
The bench is enough to accommodate couples or small families.
A guide of what you can see or visit here.
It may be a park but, simultaneously, a forest, so for everyone's safety, there is a cemented pathway to walk in. Exploring the whole place away from the ground might lead you to danger. How did I say that? Well, I saw this sign;
Would you still dare?
As I continued to stroll around, I heard flashes of water. Curiosity leads me here;
A small fountain that added calming vibes. I sat at the edge for a while, savoring the moment of peace! I am thankful I found this place, goodness, I am really aging 😆🤣.
While sitting, I glanced at the right path and wondered what these balls were for. Do you have an idea? I only saw a do not touch sign when I walked near. Knowing me, seeing this sign just made my hands inch, lol. The desire to feel something forbidden! So before I would listen to the not-so-good side of my brain, I turned around.
362, wow, trees planted here were counted! Now I am curious how many trees are here. Mostly I see mahoganies, though.
There are a few newly planted and with signed boards that may be monitored after years.
Found also Anahaw, do you know this is a Philippines National leave?
In several parts of the park, these long stairs and look like a bridge. I also wanted experience and saw some families and couples taking pictures. Mind you; I was approached not only once to be a photographer! Maybe, because I am alone so it would be fine with me.
On the last bridge, where I supposed to pass by as I wanted to check the Koi fishes, but how can I?
It might disturb the moment, so I detour! The route was a bit far, but I was led here instead.
This is the other side of the park facing the M.L. Quezon Bridge.
As much as I wanted to stay longer, I didn't since it wasn't shaded. I felt like burning, so I get down. Better to go and my first destination.
These bamboo trees reminded me of Home.
I was about to check if there were bamboo shoots but a sign that said, beware of snakes, sighted in this area. 😂
Finally found it, yet, I feel contended watching them swimming back and forth as feeding them is prohibited.
While standing, I talked with some staff, and she said there are different unique birds here. However, since many people wander around, they choose to stay hidden from the trees.
Several staffs are maintaining the whole area, re-planting, sweeping dried leaves, etc. Thus, they aren't throwing those. Instead, they are practicing natural regeneration.
To others, this place might not be attractive to them, but for me, it is worth a visit. Nature always has the power to recharge our energy, smoothen moods, give a smile to our faces, and many more. What do you think?
Lead image was edited using Canva
All photos are mine
Footer credit to Sensiblecast