A park in the middle of the metropolis is always a refreshing site. And when an opportunity to visit it came, with no conflict in schedule, I simply couldn’t resist it. Together with friends from MIP – Rey,
Dodong, Jovy,
Jen, Aldwin, Albert,
Ronald and Dennis (who again followed), we visited the La Mesa Eco Park in Fairview Q.C to do some photo shooting. Rey, Jen, Aldwin, Ronald and I met at the Quezon Memorial Circle; the others we are to meet at the Eco Park, Dodong and Jovy were already there when we arrived.
The first thing one would notice upon entering the park is the lush vegetation. Big trees surround the park, which is part of the water shed for the La Mesa water reservoir. And to think that some people in the government want to cut most of the trees and convert a good portion of the area into a housing area.
Trees welcome visitors to the park
Park Landscape
Water an integral part of the park
There are lots of activities that all members of the families can enjoy while inside the park. There is a swimming pool inside (additional fee would be charge for the use of the pool), a bike rental, a bike trail and walking trail that passes thru the green vegetation of the area. There is also a boating area at one of the lagoon. For the highly active, there is a paintball game area, wall climbing and a zip line ride across the lagoon. The park is also a favorite venue for big group activities as there are open areas for different types of fun activities. And there is photo shooting. The park offers a wide array of subjects for photographers, from the landscape, to the greeneries, flowers, some birds and the human activities.
Boating in the Lagoon
Open field for group activitiesThere is a butterfly farm inside the park. The butterflies are not breed there but came all the way from Marinduque. It is interesting to know how they transport those butterflies. With wings spread they put it inside a folded piece of paper. The papers are put inside plastic bags and are then transported via RORO and bus. If I remember it right, only around 60-70% survived the trip. The remaining 30-40% is considered system loss =).
Butterfly inside the parkOne disappointing thing in the park, the area by the water reservoir is off limits to the public. There is an area where you can get a glimpse of the water, but there is a sign saying no photo or video taking. I don’t really know the reason behind the no photo and no video taking when it can be easily seen via Google Earth.
Well, the plan activity was successful, because just after we left the park it rained hard. La Mesa Eco Park is a welcome site in the concrete jungle of Metro Manila. La Mesa Eco Park is really a nice patch of God’s green earth in the middle of the city.
Well written, MJ. I like how you applied the words "system loss" here, Hehehe...