The local government of Manila did a great job renovating this old forest park and reopening it to the public. It is dubbed as "the last lung" of the city, with its more than 1567 trees from 81 species, providing around 32 types of birds with a natural habitat and nestling ground. The whole urban forest park sprawls on a 2.2-hectare lot, which used to be a Chinese settlement in the late 17th century. Today it's a very relaxing oasis where you can relax, enjoy the sound of nature, and breathe some fresh air while remaining in the city. There are elevated concrete pathways, lots of benches, a couple of bridges, a viewing deck along the Pasig River, fountains, etc. Entrance is free, but parking costs Php 50.

We unexpectedly walked up on this forest. My friend Lyn insisted she had to get in there. She asked. Next thing she knocked on the closed gate and someone opened. She signed the guest book and we were let in. I read some of the reviews where access seemed difficult. So I will make up for that by including some of the pictures I took. In the near future I will post video to my YouTube channel for those interested to see the inside. Link is on my profile. It's a small area so you won't have to do a lot of walking. But there are several signs in there you will want to stop and read. And there is a bridge you can actually stand on to take pictures. Access is free.