Philippine National Tree Planted on Maui Soil

July 2009 Issue, Fil-Am Observer
Page 9


WAILUKU, Maui- With a joint undertaking between the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce [MFCC] and University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Hawaii [UPAAH], the Narra was planted on Maui soil last June 13 at the Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens located at the lush Iao Valley.

Narra is the Philippines' national tree.

"For the first time a Narra tree is planted here on Maui and this activity commemorates the 111th anniversary of Philippine Indepence," said chamber president Leo Agcolicol.

"Considered as the hardest species of Philippine trees, the Narra symbolizes the Filipino's tenacity and hard working quality," added Alma Phocas, president of UPAAH.

Other officers of the alumni association who came all the way from Honolulu attended the event. They are Bea Ramos Razon, Dennis Bondocoy, and Carol Weygan-Hildebrand. Other members of the chamber and alumni of UP residing on Maui also joined the tree planting.

Kahu Leslie Kuloloio who expounded the symbolisms and relationships of man, plants and the soil performed blessing of the tree planting ceremony.

The chamber thanks UPAAH working collaboratively with this project and to Alma for providing the tree.
_________________________