When the covid-19 pandemic hit, just like many others, lawyer Anastacio “Jun” Muntuerto and his wife Nora faced an uncertain future. They were cut off from the world and confined to their property in Carcar, Cebu. There, they found themselves staring down a crisis that threatened to leave them feeling isolated and anxious.
But what began as a time of uncertainty soon became a period of rediscovery, as the couple poured their energy into turning their land into a blooming sanctuary of colorful bougainvilleas. The place is now known as Jardin de Muntuerto.
Initially, the garden was just a small, personal project—a place for the couple to unwind. But with lockdowns keeping them grounded, the couple saw this as unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, an opportunity that would lead to the creation of one of Cebu’s most captivating garden destinations.
“Being stuck here gave us the time to fully focus on the garden,” Atty. Jun explained. “We were able to plant, graft, and expand what was once just a hobby into something we could share with others.”
Today, Jardin de Muntuerto is a thriving 10-hectare garden sanctuary, drawing visitors from all over with its stunning collection of bougainvilleas, unique landscapes, and carefully curated spaces for reflection and connection.
A garden in full bloom
Visitors entering Jardin de Muntuerto are greeted by a breathtaking sight of vibrant bougainvilleas cascading over wooden gates, leading into a landscape teeming with color. Rows of date palms and tropical greenery frame the pathways, while bougainvilleas bloom in pots, jars, and even cement baskets, adding splashes of red, purple, and pink throughout the grounds.
The garden‛s design goes beyond beauty. It invites guests to engage with the surroundings. A heart-shaped trellis, bamboo gazebos, and loveseats dot the property, creating spaces where people can relax and soak in the garden's peaceful atmosphere. At its heart lies a cross-shaped chapel surrounded by hibiscus and bougainvillea arranged in a rosary pattern—a serene setting that has become a favorite for contemplative walks and personal reflection.
Jardin de Muntuerto’s unique features don’t stop there. A towering arrangement of Golden Tops foliage lights up at night, casting a soft glow over the garden and adding to its charm. From footpaths to golf cart tours, visitors can experience the full scope of this tropical haven, wandering among towering African Talisay trees, blooming bougainvillea, and birds serenading the scene.
A family affair
The journey of Jardin de Muntuerto has been a family affair from the start. While Atty. Jun dreamed of creating a bougainvillea haven, Nora played a crucial role in shaping the garden’s aesthetic. Her artistic vision is evident throughout the property, from the salakot-shaped roof of their family home nestled within the garden, to the thoughtfully designed “Bougainvillea Terraces” that have become a scenic highlight. With the help of bonsai artists from Manila and plant experts from Mindanao, the Muntuertos transformed their land into a showcase of Philippine horticulture.
As the pandemic months stretched on, the couple invested in further developments, including a three-story guesthouse complete with a roof deck and swimming pool, allowing them to welcome guests looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Jardin de Muntuerto.
“We wanted it to be a place where people could come, unwind, and experience the peace that nature brings,” Atty. Jun said. The garden now hosts family gatherings, reunions, and even destination weddings, making it not just a personal retreat but a shared sanctuary for others.
The Bougainvillea movement
Bougainvillea has always held a special place in Atty. Jun’s heart, but his vision for the plant goes beyond simple decoration. Even before the pandemic, in 2018, he helped establish Bougainvillea Philippines, organizing exhibits and events to promote the colorful shrub and bring plant enthusiasts together. When events came to a halt during the pandemic, the bougainvillea movement continued to grow—this time from the Muntuertos’ own backyard. Their garden became a hub for bougainvillea exhibitions, further popularizing the plant and proving its value not only as a decorative feature but as a potential source of income.
As bougainvillea grew in popularity, local officials in Cebu began using it to beautify roads and public spaces, seeing in it a simple yet impactful way to enliven the community.
“People used to overlook bougainvillea,” Atty. Jun shared. “But now, they see it as more than a plant. It has become a source of joy, a business opportunity, and even a movement.”
According to Atty. Jun, ougainvillea bonsai and topiaries, once considered simple garden decor, are now sold for as much as ₱200,000, providing livelihood opportunities for farmers and gardeners who have embraced the plant’s growing appeal.
“Our hope is that people who visit will feel the peace and healing that nature brings,” Atty. Jun said. “It’s not just about the flowers. It’s about the joy and tranquility that come from being surrounded by beauty.”