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The Calanasan Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) has confirmed the presence of a rare jade vine species in forest areas of Barangays Tanglagan and Langnao following a recent on-site assessment.
The species was documented by MENRO green guards during routine environmental patrols led by MENR Officer and Environmental Specialist Sarah Mae Batil. The vines were found growing naturally in undisturbed forest sections, prompting the office to initiate further documentation and monitoring.
Locally known as tayabak, the jade vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys) is a plant species endemic to the Philippines, recognized for its distinctive bluish-green flowers that bloom in long, hanging clusters. Due to its limited natural distribution and specific habitat requirements, sightings of the plant in the wild are uncommon.
MENRO noted that the jade vine relies on fruit bats for pollination, linking its survival to the presence of healthy wildlife populations and intact forest ecosystems.
The jade vine is also recognized nationally, having been featured on the Philippine five-peso coin as a symbol of the country’s biodiversity and natural heritage.
According to MENRO, the discovery reflects favorable environmental conditions in the area, including sustained forest cover and minimal disturbance. The office emphasized the need for continued protection efforts to preserve these natural habitats.
MENRO urged residents and visitors to report any sightings of the jade vine for proper recording and monitoring, and cautioned the public against cutting, collecting, or attempting to propagate the plant, as such actions may threaten its survival in the wild.
