Porac, Pampanga — The La Salle Botanical Gardens (LSBG) officially broke ground at Alviera in Porac, Pampanga, marking the launch of a visionary project dedicated to conserving indigenous plants, advancing environmental research, and fostering education and eco-tourism.
Spanning 50 hectares, the gardens will showcase 25 themed collections of Philippine native flora suited to the unique lahar-based landscapes near Mount Pinatubo. Designed as both sanctuary and living laboratory, LSBG integrates research labs, seed banks, and sustainable landscape features such as rain gardens and water harvesting systems, serving as a hub for students, scientists, and environmental advocates.
The grounds will welcome the public with walking and bike trails, picnic areas, campsites, a chapel complex, and an amphitheater, offering recreational and outdoor learning opportunities that make environmental stewardship accessible to all.
Jennylle S. Tupaz, Ayala Land Vice President and Senior Estates Development Head for Vismin and Central Luzon, reflected: “Just as a garden is brought to life by the harmonious partnership of many elements—the dedicated steward, essential insects, thriving plants, and nurturing weather—no single factor is more important than another. Today’s groundbreaking is therefore a profound celebration of strategic and genuine partnerships.”
She added, “The La Salle Botanical Gardens Alviera, with its vast expanse, is a monumental step. It reinforces De La Salle University’s position in curating a world-class, living, and sustainable ecosystem. Simultaneously, the LSBG solidifies Alviera’s position as a dynamic growth center in Central Luzon by housing the most expansive and comprehensive botanical garden in the Philippines.”
Phase 1, set to open next year, will attract academic researchers as well as families and visitors nationwide. Tupaz expressed excitement to “welcome students, researchers, guests, and families from within the country and across the globe.”
Key leaders underscored the garden’s role in education and stewardship:
Br. Raymundo Suplido FSC, President of De La Salle University Science Foundation Inc., said: “The La Salle Botanical Gardens is not just about planting trees, but about cultivating knowledge and responsibility. By preserving indigenous species and creating a hub for research, we ensure that future generations inherit not only a greener Pampanga, but also the wisdom to protect it.”
Br. Iñigo Riola FSC, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of LSBG Inc., added: “This groundbreaking affirms our mission as Lasallians to care for both people and the planet. The gardens will be a living classroom where students, educators, and communities learn together how conservation and stewardship can shape a sustainable future.”
Br. Felipe Belleza Jr. FSC, President of LSBG Inc., remarked: “We envision the La Salle Botanical Gardens as a place where science, faith, and community converge. It will stand as a sanctuary for biodiversity, a center for learning, and a destination that inspires every visitor to take part in protecting our common home.”
Led by De La Salle Philippines through the Lasallian Institute for the Environment, the project enjoys strong support from La Salle faculty, alumni, and schools nationwide, and is fully funded by grants and donations.
Partners from Leonio Land, represented by Clarissa Leonio-Asuncion and Carlo Leonio, joined Ayala Land executives led by Ayala Land Senior Vice-President and Estates Group Head Christopher Maglanoc in the groundbreaking at Alviera.
Once complete, the La Salle Botanical Gardens will be a scientific resource and vibrant ecosystem where communities connect deeply with nature, study endangered Philippine plants, and actively engage in sustainable conservation. By bridging scientific research with community engagement and cultural appreciation, the La Salle Botanical Gardens will not only conserve endangered Philippine native species but also inspire generations to value and protect the natural environment. It will be a cornerstone for environmental education, sustainable tourism, and a model for integrating nature within a rapidly developing urban region like Alviera and Central Luzon.
For more information about visiting, partnerships, or supporting the La Salle Botanical Gardens, visit www.lasallebotanical.org.
Media Contact:
Andrea Alido
XMPLR Sports Marketing
About LA SALLE BOTANICAL GARDENS
The La Salle Botanical Gardens is a visionary ecological regeneration project in Alviera, Porac, Pampanga, dedicated to plant conservation, research, education, and sustainable tourism. With 25 themed gardens, advanced research facilities, and sustainable landscape design, LSBG is a flagship institution fostering environmental awareness, community engagement, and scientific study.
About ALVIERA
ALVIERA is a 1,800-hectare integrated mixed-use estate in Porac, Pampanga, developed by Ayala Land and Leonio Land. As Central Luzon’s regional growth center, ALVIERA offers a dynamic blend of commercial, residential, industrial, and recreational spaces, championing sustainable and smart urban development for all
About XMPLR
XMPLR (ex·em·plar / ‘iɡˈzemplär’) is a sports marketing organization that was launched in 2020 to help progress Philippine Sports, one initiative at a time. Composed of former athletes turned sports marketing professionals, XMPLR conducts initiatives to help inspire, promote an active and healthy lifestyle, and provide training and support to its stakeholders through XMPLR Sports, The Goal Diggers’ platform, its advocacy Pitch In PH and other efforts. You can find the Goal Diggers PH on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Spotify.
