On October 25, 2013, an educational adventure took our Botany class to the University of the Philippines – Los Baños and the International Rice Research Institute in Laguna. The highlight of the day was our ascent of Mt. Makiling, a first-time experience for me, which left me utterly exhausted. However, our fatigue was soon forgotten, for serendipity was on our side when we reached the summit. A delightful surprise awaited us – local vendors offering fresh lanzones and rambutan. The fruit was so delectable that nearly all of us couldn’t resist buying kilos of it.

Amid the picturesque backdrop of the mountain, our day took an unexpected turn when we bumped into a former classmate, Glenn Mariano. This reunion sparked a flurry of lively interactions – playful banter, impromptu chases, laughter, and camaraderie that filled the day with joy. All in all, this educational tour proved to be an enriching and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.