LOOK: Masungi Georeserve shares stunning snaps of Philippine cherry blossoms
The Philippine version of Japan's iconic sakura or cherry blossom trees in Rizal is already showing some of its blossoming pink flowers.
In a Twitter post on Wednesday, March 22, Masungi Georeserve shared some stunning photos of the Salinggogon tree that's native to the country.
The Salinggogon tree (Cratoxylum formosum) can grow up to 65 feet tall, with some known specimens reaching over 140 feet, Masungi Georeserve noted.
"Passers-by are drawn to its pink crown which stands out among the greenery of the georeserve," it said in a tweet. "Under the protection of Masungi park rangers, these trees are flourishing without the threat of being cleared."
(Masungi Georeserve)
(Masungi Georeserve)
(Masungi Georeserve)
(Masungi Georeserve)
(Masungi Georeserve)
(Masungi Georeserve)
(Masungi Georeserve)
(Masungi Georeserve)
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(Masungi Georeserve)
(Masungi Georeserve)
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Since the trees are still young, the conservation area asked the public for patience "to see a forest of pink blooms in the future."
Once in full bloom, the flowers last for two to three weeks during the dry season or summer, blooming just before new leaves start to regrow.
Masungi Georeserve also called on the public to protect Salinggogon trees, as they're at risk due to illegal logging.
In another tweet, the management asked the public to show support by visiting its official website and signing the #SaveMasungi movement petition against destructive activities.
Japan's cherry blossom trees, meanwhile, would be in full bloom from mid-March to late April and even early May.