Extremely rare albino form of an orchid species discovered

Dr. Miguel David De Leon discovered an exceptionally rare and beautiful albino form of an endangered orchid, the Aerides lawrenceae fma. composii.

BY JAMES TABABA

Apr 21, 2023 02:43 PM

  

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By JAMES TABABA

Dr. Miguel David De Leon, a vitreoretinal surgeon and a field biologist, has been studying orchids, birds, and mammals for years, including the Aerides lawrenceaeorchid. The nominate—or the original—species of Aerides lawrenceae is predominantly white and purple, with some green, but it can also have certain varieties or forms.

Aerides lawrenceae fma. composii (Dr. Miguel David De Leon/Robert S. Kennedy Bird Conservatory)

According to Dr. De Leon, one of the most noteworthy and glorious forms of the Aerides lawrenceae is its  extremely rare albino form which does not have red or purple pigments, resulting in pure white and green coloring.

Since the 1800s, Europeans have collected many orchids in the Philippines, scouring the forests of the Philippines for remarkable orchids, but they have never actually found this rare albino form of the Aerides lawrenceae. 

In 1935, renowned botanist Oakes Ames and Eduardo Quisumbing described a white form of this orchid,  Aerides lawrenceaevar.fortichii, in honor of Representative Manuel Fortich who collected two specimens from his ranch in Bukidnon. Eventually, in 2007, Wolff and Gruß suggested recombining it as a forma, citing the previously published white form as var. Fortichii. Since 1935, white forms or mostly white forms have been presumed to be albino specimens and have been called fma. (var.) fortichii.

That is, until Dr. Miguel David De Leon discovered the true albino form, the Aerides lawrenceae fma. composiiin Bukidnon. 

While browsing the complete 1925 volume of the Philippine Journal of Science for bird descriptions, Dr. De Leon came across the original description of Ames and Quisumbing's white form of Aerides lawrenceaevar.fortichii. Upon reading the description and looking at the illustration carefully, Dr. De Leon realized that the white form they described was not truly an albino form, as it had pink in the middle of the flower. The true albino form of the orchid is completely white and green.

Aerides lawrenceae fma. composii (Dr. Miguel David De Leon/Robert S. Kennedy Bird Conservatory)

This exceptionally rare and beautiful variety is named after Joselito "Butch" Campos III, a prominent business tycoon, philanthropist, and supporter of wildlife conservation in the Philippines. Dr. De Leon emphasized that he has been a dedicated supporter of the Philippine Eagle Foundation and the Robert S. Kennedy Bird Conservancy (RSKBC) and has been actively involved in various conservation projects. Moreover, as a philanthropist, he selflessly assists countless individuals in need, while providing livelihood for thousands of Filipinos in the companies he owns.

Aerides lawrenceae is a species that is classified as endangered by IUCN (Union for Conservation of Nature) and is endemic to the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. The Aerides lawrenceae fma. composii is exceptionally rare because “only one plant remains in the wild and it is protected in a private conservation site along with the conservation of birds by the Robert S. Kennedy Bird Conservancy,” Dr. De Leon said. He also added that due to its sterile nature, propagating this plant can be a highly challenging task.

Partnerships and captive breeding

Dr. Miguel David De Leon is a conservationist who has been working with  indigenous peoples and private landowneres to preserve the biodiversity of the Philippines. He discussed the importance of partnerships and captive breeding in conservation efforts. He is the Director of the Robert S. Kennedy Bird Conservancy which aims to contribute to science, with the ultimate goal of conserving Philippine habitats and wildlife. By working with these landowners and landowners, they are able to protect the existing biodiversity while also helping to restore the degraded land. This partnership approach is recognized by major conservation organizations such as the United Nations and CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), who have made it their slogan for the year.

Dr. De Leon also acknowledges that land development cannot be stopped and that it is necessary to establish captive breeding and propagation programs to conserve plants and animals that are affected by infrastructure development. This is mandated by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Republic Act 9147, also known as the Wildlife Act.

“Whatever plants that are affected by infrastructure development, we rescue and grow them in partnership with DENR. We cannot stop development so what do we do with the displaced plants and animals? We have to put them in botanical gardens and farms dedicated to conservation,” Dr. De Leon said.

The importance of discovery and research of plant species

Dr. Miguel De Leon emphasizes the importance of discovering and naming plants, animals, and orchids for conservation efforts. He emphasizes that it is difficult to protect something that we do not know or understand. Naming and identifying a species can lead to increased public awareness and policy-making, enabling us to identify and protect critical habitats.

The Philippines is one of the world's most biodiverse countries, and Dr. De Leon highlights that discovering new species further highlights the country's exceptional biodiversity. Naming and identifying species can also strengthen the concept of biodiversity in the Philippines, promoting conservation efforts.

Aerides lawrenceae fma. composii (Dr. Miguel David De Leon/Robert S. Kennedy Bird Conservatory)

Dr. De Leon said, ”many Philippine orchid species have been grown and traded in other countries. It is ironic that the country of origin of these species lags way behind those countries. Many Philippine orchid species are economically important and can be a viable means of livelihood for Filipinos.” He believes that the promotion of horticulture and conservation efforts can go hand in hand, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

“Something so noteworthy, so horticulturally important, and something so glorious compels everyone else to do everything because extinction is forever. We should exert all efforts to preserve what remains of our vanishing treasures while the Philippines is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. Otherwise, our country will become the most biologically bankrupt,” Dr. De Leon said.

The discovery of the true albino form of Aerides lawrenceae is not only a testament to the beauty and diversity of the Philippines reminding us that though we have seen so many attractive orchids, there is still much to be discovered and explored. It is not only a scientific achievement but also a crucial step towards protecting endangered plant species through conservation of habitats and plant propagation.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Miguel David De Leon/Robert S. Kennedy Bird Conservatory

Things to do in Hundred Islands | The Pride of Alaminos City

Hottest so far in 2023: Heat index hits 48°C in Agusan Del Norte

BY CHARIE MAE F. ABARCA

Apr 21, 2023 07:17 PM

  

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A sizzling 48°C heat index was recorded in Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte on Friday, April 21, marking the country’s highest heat index so far in 2023.

(Unsplash)

Butuan City, Agusan Del Norte on Friday recorded a heat index of 48°C, surpassing the previously-announced all-time high of 47°C in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro on March 25.

The scorching heat was also felt in various parts of the country. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), in its latest bulletin, bared that 13 Philippine areas have also recorded a “dangerous” heat index on Friday.

These areas include Baler, Aurora (43°C); Catarman, Northern Samar (44°C); CLSU Muñoz, Nueva Ecija (42°C); Dagupan City, Pangasinan (43°C); Davao City, Davao Del Sur (42°C); Iba Zambales (43°C); Legazpi, Albay (47°C); Maasin, Southern Leyte (42°C); Masbate City, Masbate (42°C), NAIA Pasay City, Metro Manila (43°C), Tacloban City, Leyte (42°C); Tayabas City, Quezon (42°C); and Virac, Catanduanes (44°C).

Heat index or human discomfort index pertains to the apparent heat that humans perceive. PAGASA earlier explained that a heat index between 42°C and 51°C is considered “dangerous” as it could cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, adding that continued exposure to the sun at this rate could cause heat stroke.

Filipinos were strongly advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat and refrain from doing exhausting activities during the hottest time of the day. According to the state weather bureau, drinking plenty of water may also prevent heat-related illnesses.

The country marked the onset of its warm and dry season on March 21.

These Filipino designers raised the country’s flag high at Vancouver Fashion Week fall-winter 2023

Jobert Cristobal and Chynna Mamawal presented their latest collections in Canada.

BY JOHN LEGASPI

Apr 21, 2023 06:56 AM

  

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With their passion, talent, and discipline, Filipino designers are now infiltrating the international fashion scene. They always have their own unique touch in making the visions come to life, and seeing their works shine abroad is a testament that the designs of our local fashion creatives are truly world-class. The recent addition to the long list of Filipinos making their way to international fashion weeks this year are designers Jobert Cristobal and Chynna Mamawal.

 Chynna Mamawal (Photo from Chynna Mamawal)  and Jobert Cristobal (Photo by Getty from @jobert.cristobal)

Earlier this week, the two presented their latest collections on the runway of Vancouver Fashion Week (VFW) fall-winter 2023. Since its establishment in 2001, the prestigious fashion fest has been on a mission to get designers global exposure. This time, the event featured over 40 shows dedicated to cultivating the success of both established and emerging designers in a highly multicultural approach.

Celebrating the Filipino style and culture—that’s what Jobert’s runway show was all about last April 13. Dubbed “Hari,” the collection was composed of pieces in homage to the classic terno and jeepney, which is described by many as the “King of Philippine Roads.” A myriad of colors and prints paraded the runway. The designer also played with different silhouettes, taking the terno form to a contemporary level. Leather cutouts and Ankara prints brought his spirited collection to life. The distinct butterfly sleeves were adorned with color-blocking details to mimic the hood and wheels of the local vehicle. While crocheted and beaded accessories and footwear completed his eccentric runway show.

“When we talk about Manila’s jeepneys, we talk about structure,” he wrote in a caption. “Our traditional jeepneys, though old and rusty, are very durable.”

Chynna, on the other hand, took everyone’s breath away with her whimsical formalwear line launched on April 15. Her collection was full of elegance, opulence, and luxury courtesy of her master tailoring skills, intricate beadwork, and heavenly hues. Ornately embellished dresses twinkled as they moved down the runway. Feathered pieces danced and fluttered serving angelic moments. Her menswear pieces, merging traditional and modern styles, were among the highlights of her show.

“I would like to showcase Filipino fashion and art in the global scene,” she said. “It’s proudly Filipino. We’re not just representing Chynna Mamawal as a designer and as a brand, we’re also representing the Philippines. Everyone on the team is a Filipino, everyone. We want to showcase every kind of Filipino talent.”

With these stunning collections capturing Filipino artistry and culture, we can expect that we will see more of Jobert and Chynna’s designs gracing other international runways.

THE DEVIL IN GADGETS AND THE REAL BIBLE

(A Post-Lenten Reflection)

By 

ReniMV Valenzuela

Have we ever wondered why fake news, trolls, distortions, deceptions, falsehoods, shams, scams, abuses, crookedness, murders, suicides, criminalities, immoralities, lawlessness, boorishness, ungodliness etc., abound and thrive in the internet and social media (through computers) like they never have in civilized, physical societies? 

God moved mightily in our 5-day "Galatians 2:20" discipleship group Lenten Retreat in Baguio, with the theme "Follow Jesus" (Matthew 16:24). There were many fresh testimonies of answered prayers and miracles upon (literally) everyone's lives as everyone testified in the retreat. 

Example is our guest, the unbelieving mother who spoke on the second day saying she hated her son abroad and wished him dead for squandering their family's wealth in vices and wanton, sinful living. In tears, she sobbed uncontrollably, testifying, "I felt a warm sensation all over my body and had a great relief inside of me. I love my son." She repented and invited Jesus Christ into her heart that day. 

However, the devil moved too in our midst as we sensed he hated all of us for bringing our Bibles and using them in the entire duration of the retreat, in teaching and break out sessions. Satan prevented us from using our projector for 3 days as the gadget failed to function. But, oh, not until we prayed hard and rebuked him upon seeing him captured in one of our event photos, his image reflected on the wide screen - at the time when the projector was still broken for a mysterious reason. (See attached photos).

But God Almighty prevailed and so the absence of the gadgets during the whole retreat program was never felt and missed. Things even got better, greater and more wondrous for the glory of God and for all of us to experience awakening and be endued with power from on high. 

Then the following day (Sunday), after we attended the evangelical church that invited our group to become a part of their Easter/Sunrise Service, back in our hotel venue, God has spoken through the fiery, thundering, hot sermon (delivered by yours truly) that brought earth-shaking revival among us and in the hotel. The message: "Godget Idolatry: Exposing the Wiles and Modern Schemes of Satan to Deceive churches and Christians." 

Any so-called "Bible" that bears materials or ungodly contents other than the Word of God is not a Bible because the Bible contains only the pure, unadulterated Word of God. But why do we treat and call our phone/gadget as Bible or our Bible? Technology is good and beneficial, but it may metamorphose to evil anytime by the way we treat it and make use of it.

The ancient Bible made on papyrus, developing from scroll to printed pages until its latest version in its most modern form today may be called Bible evolution. But claiming the Bible as having evolved into a gadget or gadgets (notwithstanding Bible app) is devil deception.

Writing the Bible on paper and reading that paper to a congregation is alright. But reading Scriptures in pulpit (without a Bible), just using "godgets" inside a supposedly sacred temple is detestable, diabolic. No, you don't look cute to God and to real Christians, using just your gadgets behind the pulpit, preaching the Bible without a Bible. Why let Christian cults appear more Christian than you in this regard? Are you discipling the world for Jesus or for Satan? 

There is more than meets the eye to all of these. The devil is extremely busy these days as the people the world over are addicted to social media - to have his mark (666) on everyone's forehead or forearm, using "chips" or highly advanced, never before seen tools and equipments, courtesy of "technology." I cannot believe pastors, ministers and priests going bananas, telling their people , "We are eternally thankful for technology.  Now we got the "Bible" at the tip of our fingers." God, have mercy! "Who can understand his error? Cleanse me, Lord, from hidden sins." - Psalm 19:12

OUR PHONE / GADGET has a Bible app, but it is not a Bible and can never be a replacement for the Bible. The Bible is holy. Our phone/gadget is not. The Bible is God-breathed and Holy Spirit-inspired. Our phone/gadget is not. God's Word is God (John 1:1, 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:20-21, Matthew 4:4), while gadgets can become devils overtime by the way we treat and use them, disguised as cutting-edge, modern "technology."

renivalenzuelaletters@yahoo.com

Marcos' Eid'l Fitr message: Sustain learning obtained during Ramadan

BY JOSEPH PEDRAJAS

Apr 21, 2023 12:59 PM

  

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President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Friday wished that the entire Filipino Muslim community would sustain the learnings they had during the observance of the holy month of Ramadan.

In his message for the Eid'l Fitr, or the festival of breaking the fast, Marcos said the "values, teachings and practice" that the community obtained throughout the month should "form the foundations of your characters as you continue to fulfill righteous deeds and strive to live a virtuous life moving forward."

"In the spirit of solidarity, the entire Filipino people also join the Muslim community in observing this solemn and festive occasion for we recognize the Islamic faith and embrace it as part of our own collective consciousness," he said.

"With our many faiths informing all our actions and bridging all our differences as a diverse set of peoples, we can transcend any challenge and still remain united under the banners of camaraderie, respect, and love," he added.

Marcos cited the sacredness of the occasion as the Muslim brothers and sisters gather for a congregational prayer and spend the rest of the day in merriment with their families, friends, and relatives.

"This reflects how Allah, the Most Gracious and Most Merciful, rewards those who have demonstrated steadfastness in the midst of spiritual rejuvenation. Indeed, He fulfills His promise that, for every sacrifice, He will provide relief," he said.

Marcos also wished that the Filipino Muslim community's wishes and prayers be granted.

Reflections on Eid al-Fitr: Fusion of faith with caring for environment

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Apr 21, 2023 00:08 AM

  

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Today, April 21, has been declared a special non-working public holiday to commemorate the end of Ramadan, a month-long period of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world. It is known as Eid al-Fitr, or the Festival of Breaking the Fast, that typically lasts for three days, or one less than what is observed in Eid al-Adha, the end of the pilgrimage season later in the year.

The observance of Eid al-Fitr begins with special morning prayers, at which greetings of “Eid Mubarak” which means “Have a blessed Eid” are exchanged. Gatherings of family and friends are held in which special meals are served, including savory delights such as the Turkish baklava, date-filled pastries and cookies in Saudi Arabia and Iraq, and honey cake in Yemen.

Another significant feature of the observance is the ritual of giving to those in need. Donations to charity are given, as well as special attention to less fortunate families. Finally, “Muslims are encouraged to give and seek forgiveness during Eid al-Fitr, and look forward to the opportunity to fast again during Ramadan the following year.”

According to scholars on Islam, the deepening of individual consciousness of the Creator “implies that one should develop an appreciation, love and authentic form of care for what has been created by God.” Hence, this year’s observance is marked by heightened consciousness on the importance of saving planet earth from the ravages of climate change and environmental degradation. Mongabay, a conservation news web portal that reports on environmental science, energy, and green design points out: “The act of glorification and worship which is shared by all communities of beings on the Earth is a sacred bond which must be carefully tended to. The connection of the inner state of the heart with the outer state of physical action is the very point of intersection at which Ramadan and the (United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change or) IPCC report meet. As Muslims focus on their worship as well as acts of service to humanity, it is imperative that they make a very conscious commitment to connect their acts of worship toward the wellbeing of the earth this Ramadan.”

Mongabay calls attention to the need to ensure the conservation of Mt. Busa in Sarangani province, home to one of the last verdant primary forests in Mindanao: “Despite its ecological importance, the mountain has enjoyed little protection, with only the topmost slopes falling under a local conservation zone.” Designated as a key biodiversity area in 2001, environmentalists and local officials are now pushing to legalize and strengthen the mountain’s protection by including it in the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas Systems (E-NIPAS).

Lastly, a clean and green Ramadan – in which plastics would be absent from the meals of many Muslims breaking their fast – is a popular theme of this year’s observance. It is reported that many mosques are progressively discontinuing single use-products, such as plastic knives, forks and water bottles.
When faith translates into behavior that is socially beneficial, then it becomes truly providential.

ELEVENTH HOUR: 8 simple ways to invest in our planet

Change starts at home; it starts with planting a seed of information that everyone can be part of the solution. 

BY CLIMATE REALITY PROJECT PHILIPPINES

Apr 20, 2023 03:41 AM

  

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For many years now, the scientific community has painted a grim scenario of what the future holds if the world fails to act with the urgency and scale needed to address the climate crisis.

To ensure a livable future, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) said that global emissions must fall by 43 percent by 2030 compared to 2019 levels.

While individual actions matter, what will ultimately save our only home, the Earth, from deterioration are systemic changes across the energy, transport, forestry, and other sectors, and the adoption of low-emission or zero-carbon pathways.

This is why we need to band together to demand our leaders and decision-makers both in the public and the private sector to shift from the current extractive, carbon-intensive, and exploitative economic system to a sustainable and low-carbon economic system.

But everyone has to start somewhere somehow. And to jumpstart your journey of being an environmental and climate warrior, here are a few tips:

First, if you can, shift to reusable and eco-friendly products.

Start your green journey with using eco-friendly products.

Expand your list of reusable and eco-friendly home items from eco-bags, tumblers, and bamboo straws to shampoo bars, all-natural tooth powder, and refillable beauty and care products. Imagine the tonnage of waste, especially plastics, that can be avoided by shifting away from single-use and investing in more sustainable home items.

Second, if you can find a space, grow your own food.

If possible, and if you have the space, you can grow your own food.

Start saving the seeds of your favorite fruit and vegetable, and plant them in your backyard, pocket or vertical garden, or even in small containers or pots. Adding edible plants to your home jungle can help protect the health of your soil, reduce your own carbon footprint, and live more self-sufficiently.

Third, use active and renewable transport.

Cycling is both good for the environment and your health.

Cycling to work, to school, or to run errands is good for your heart and health. The world we live in today will never be the same in the future because of climate change. While we still have the time, cycle going to local cafes and shops, in parks, or in places that bring childhood memories.

Both the government and private sector must work together to invest in end-of-trip facilities and bicycle-friendly infrastructure like safe bicycle lanes and public parking spaces to encourage more Filipinos to cycle and walk.

Fourth, join the call for a renewable energy transition.

It's time for renewable energy, which can be sourced from the sun and wind.

We need to view renewable energy development not just from an environmental or climate standpoint, but from an economic standpoint as well. Many studies and experts are saying that renewable makes good economic sense here in the Philippines, where most electricity is sourced from dirty, expensive, and imported fossil fuels.

Renewable energy will bring down our electricity rates, allow for grid stability and fewer brownouts, provide energy access for all Filipinos, especially those living in communities not connected to the grid; create more jobs, and ultimately result in healthier for the people and planet.

Fifth, share the reality of climate change and the urgency of acting now with your family, friends, and colleagues.

Talk to your family and friends about the urgency of climate action.

Change starts at home. It starts with planting a seed of information that everyone can be part of the solution — may it be changing our own personal lifestyle to be more mindful consumers, writing to your local government leader to support a policy banning single-use plastics, or discussing with a private business owner the opportunities of installing solar panels.

Sixth, protect your mental health.

To combat eco-anxiety, take a breather, such as walking in nature.

The impacts of climate change and the anxiety of climate inaction from our leaders are putting a strain on people’s mental health. When everything feels overwhelming, breathe and reconnect with nature by hiking, swimming in rivers and lakes, walking in the park, or tending to your edible home garden.

Seventh, find local climate and environmental causes to support.

Volunteer your time and effort to contribute to saving the planet.

Be involved in your community. Learn about the climate and environmental issues in your city or municipality. Find local organizations supporting environmental protection and climate action in your city or municipality. Whenever possible, volunteer your time and talent to help make the local climate and environmental initiatives a success.

Lastly, join a climate change / environmental group.

It takes teamwork and a collective voice to truly have an impactful stand for the planet.

Find a community or group that will support your climate and sustainability journey and will help you become a better advocate.

Fighting for our planet is not something you should do alone. You are not alone. We cannot work in silos. We should come together and create dynamic synergies in climate action so that we can build replicable, scalable, and sustainable projects, programs, and practices.

Collectively, our voice is stronger. You have many roles to play — from grassroots mobilizers, educators and influencers, to policymakers and project implementers in your own right.