• THERESA MAE DULMAN
A 40.5-cm in diameter rafflesia speciosa was spotted in Mount Kanlaon Natural Park (MKNP) in Brgy. Ilijan, Bago City, Negros Occidental July 2.
It was documented by MKNP park ranger Israel Malunes along with the Kanlaon Green Brigade.
Malunes said they discovered the plant during a foot patrol, adding this is the first time that the species has been sighted this year.
“This remarkable finding is a reminder that, even amid the volcano unrest, the park remains a vital sanctuary for rare and unique biodiversity,” he said.
They spotted one back in 2024, in Brgy. Mailum, also in Bago.
Studies said rafflesia speciosa is a rare, critically-endangered parasitic plant found in Panay and Negros islands. | TMD
