Palawan Cherry Blossom

The Palawan Cherry Blossom, Locally known as Balayong, is medium-size tree endemic in Palawan and is also refered as “Palawan cherry”. It is the Philippine version of cherry blossom tree that also produces beautiful light pink flowers similar to the ones in Japan.

For locals, it is a symbol of feminine dominance, female beauty, love and is celebrated during the Balayong Festival in Palawan, which is observed every March.

Cherry Blossom in Intramuros

If you want to see the Palawan cherry blossom and you can’t go to Palawan right now and you’re residing in the NCR, there’s a good news for you. In 2020, a group of young leaders planted 50 Balayong tree outside the walls of Intramuros. The said project is called “Manila Sakura Project” led by JCI Manila aiming to beautify the historical place. Project Chairman Julian Dayrit said that the inspiration behind the project is his personal travel to Japan during blooming season to see the Sakura Trees.

The planting event that planted 50 Balayong Tree, stands 6 to 10 feet high, happened last October 22, 2020 and it is now ready to bloom every March to April in Manila.

Scientific name: Cassia nodosa
Family: Caesalpiniaceae

references:
https://palawandailynews.com/environment/balayong-trees-are-now-planted-in-intramorus/