We had an exciting discovery at Kaligayahan Elementary School when we saw the Katipunan Duhat Tree.
Who would’ve thought that I would discover a heritage tree standing magnificently in a quiet corner in Kaligayahan Elementary School (KES)?
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| The "Katipunan" Duhat Heritage Tree in Kaligayahan Elementary School |
Heritage Series: The Duhat Tree In Kaligayahan Elementary School
During the start of classes, Rafa and I accompanied Miguel for his early morning special education class at KES. Since we had an hour of waiting time, I asked Rafa if he wanted to walk around and tour his Kuya’s school. While we were walking, I noticed a tall and ancient-looking tree at the farthest end of Belmonte Hall from the main gate. It was enclosed in a concrete fence, so I thought there was a mini park in that corner. I asked Rafa if he wanted to check it out, and he said yes.
When we were finally close to the tree, I noticed that it had a marker. The engravings were almost indiscernible, but after a little struggle, I read the words “Heritage” and “Katipuneros”, which all the more intensified my curiosity. Upon closer inspection, I was able to finally read the words in the marker and I soon realized that we weren’t looking at an ordinary tree. It was a heritage tree that provided shelter to the Katipuneros during the Spanish liberation period. It was an exciting discovery for me, and I was amused that it was just right there inside Miguel’s school.
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| The marker for the heritage tree in KES |
The words in the marker read:
“Duhat Tree is a smooth and fast-growing tree. When grown in the open, It generally gains 15 meters in height and it valued for its fruit and timber.
Its dense foliage provides shade and is grown for its ornamental value. The wood is strong and is water resistant. It is sometimes used to make furniture and village dwellings. The seed is used in various alternative healing while its leaves and the bark are used for controlling blood pressure and gingivitis. Wine and vinegar are also made from its fruits, which is a high source of vitamins A and C.
During the early days of the Philippine Revolution the Katipuneros led by Andres Bonifacio fled to the thick forest of Novaliches where this big tree is located to evade arrest. Moreover, it is in the shade of this tree where the revolutionary heroine Melchora Aquino, better known as Tandang Sora and some women nursed and comforted the sick and wounded Katipuneros.
This tree is hereby declared as HERITAGE TREE this 12th day of June 2010.”
As I always say, travel doesn’t have to be too far. There are always exciting things to discover around us, just have a curious mind and open eyes and you’ll see a lot of beautiful, historical, and even educational landmarks in nearby places.
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