The popularity of the Walingwaling flower has had a steady increase among flower enthusiasts and in the industry worldwide.
Discovered in Mt. Apo and first introduced to orchid enthusiasts in London back in 1882 , its ornamental value has spread to countries like Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Hawaii making the cultivation of Walingwaling hybrids a highly profitable and lucrative business.
Once worshipped by the native Bagobos as a “diwata” or tree goddess, the Walingwaling is touted as the queen of Philippine flowers. Moreover, there are a number of Filipino short stories and legends that feature the Walingwaling, as it is rooted much in our history and culture.
Thus, this bill seeks to declare the Walingwaling as the National Flower of the Philippines to better illustrate our country’s homegrown beauty and international acclaim.
Its immense potential is not only in the promotion of our natural resources and beauty, but also in its contribution to livelihood and income for our Filipino people.
Hence, there is also a need to pursue programs for its proper preservation and further promotion as it takes four to five years to blossom.
The Walingwaling’s historic value, international popularity, and economic viability, partnered with the fact that it is homegrown and native to the Philippines makes it most suitable as our national flower.
In view ofthe foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
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