Legarda pushes for Waling-waling as National Orchid
Senator Loren Legarda has formally sponsored Senate Bill No. 2092 under Committee Report No. 58, a measure seeking to declare the Waling-waling (Vanda sanderiana) as the National Orchid of the Philippines.
During her sponsorship speech on May 5, 2026, Legarda emphasized that the measure aims to affirm the endemicity, rarity, and cultural significance of the "Queen of Philippine Orchids". Unlike previous legislative attempts in 2012 that sought to name it a "second national flower"—a proposal that was vetoed in 2013 due to potential confusion with the Sampaguita—this current bill specifically designates it as a national orchid to complement existing national symbols.
Key Features of the Bill
Conservation Mandate: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) would be tasked with leading the protection, conservation, and propagation of the species.
Cultural Promotion: The National Museum of the Philippines would play a key role in promoting the orchid's scientific and cultural importance.
Protecting a "Diwata": The bill recognizes the flower's deep roots in Filipino heritage, particularly among the indigenous Bagobo people of Mindanao who venerate it as a "diwata" (fairy or deity).
A Biological and Cultural Treasure
Endemic to the rainforests of Davao, Cotabato, and Zamboanga, the Waling-waling is currently classified as critically endangered due to habitat loss from deforestation and unregulated wild collection. Legarda stressed that the bill is about more than just symbolism, stating, "This is where symbolism meets substance," and that protecting biodiversity must remain a top national priority.
The Waling-waling is globally renowned as the "mother" of many modern vanda hybrids, making its official recognition a significant step in asserting the Philippines' unique natural heritage.
Comments