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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Horti Filipina International Plant Show 2025 unfolds at SMX Convention Center in Pasay

Horti Filipina International Plant Show 2025 unfolds at SMX Convention Center in Pasay

Published Feb 21, 2025 08:28 am

The grandest and most anticipated horticultural event of the year, Horti Filipina – International Plant Show 2025, officially opened on Friday, Feb. 21 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

The five-in-one horticultural spectacle, which runs until Sunday, Feb, 23, showcases not only extraordinary plants, but also exotic pets, koi breeds, game fowls, and the dynamic offerings from the Philippine Hot Sauce Club.

This year’s star-studded lineup includes Japan’s plant legend Kunzo Nishihata, Indonesia’s horticultural godfather Chandra Hendarto, and Instagram sensation Noldy Topan. 

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Japanese 'Plant Master' Kunzo Nishita (Mark Balmores)

 

Adding to the prestige is Sappasiri Chaovanich, also known as Mr. Home Collector, a renowned global plant collector and show director of the upcoming Bangkok International Exotic Plant Show and Sale in March. 

Joining them are esteemed representatives from Ecuador—Nikole Portilla, Carmen Apollo, and Gilberto Merino, as well as the Philippines’ own Boyet Ganigan of Arids and Aroids International.

Horti Filipina 2025 is further elevated by the presence of Mikey Bustos, an iconic cultural figure and the mind behind AntsCanada. He is known for his awe-inspiring vivarium projects where flora and fauna thrive in harmony. 

Also gracing the event is Ethan Hernandez, a green influencer and University of the Philippines (UP) Los Banos assistant professor dedicated to debunking myths and misinformation about medicinal and culinary plants.

Horti Filipina awardees

The event will also be honoring the incredible contributions of Filipino plant breeders who have gained international recognition. 

Among them is Boyet Ganigan, whose Sansevieria hybrid 'S. BG Regale' has become an icon for its striking form and coloration. Another prominent figure is Glanz Ang, creator of Sansevieria ‘Queen Elizabeth II,’ a regal hybrid named in honor of the late British monarch.

Representing Davao City, Bing Onari and Cris Siegfrid Onari of Venado Tropicals are showcasing their breathtaking bromeliad hybrids, continuing the legacy of Bebot Onari, known for Neoregelia 'Duterte.' Rey Pimentel, an innovative breeder from Del Monte Philippines in Bukidnon, is known for his sought-after Hoya, Mussaenda, and Alocasia hybrids. Meanwhile,

Fernando “Biglang-Awa” Aurigue, a national scientist and breeder, is presenting his

groundbreaking Anthurium 'King Philip' (A. Hookeri x A. Crystallinum), a cross once deemed impossible due to species incompatibility.

The event is also highlighting Botchie “Dyosa” Canicula, a breeder specializing in Anthurium foliage and Gesneriads, with his Episcia 'Carmelita’s Delight.' As the organizer of Plant Camp, he continues to champion local plant growers and breeders.

World-class speakers

The show also features a roster of esteemed speakers who will be delving into the botanical wonders of the Philippines and the commercial prospects of the horticulture industry.

They are (Feb. 21): Melissa Travis (Suloy), Ethan Hernandez, and Nishihata.

On Saturday, Feb. 22, to be presented are Dr. Ephraim Cercado, Dr. Jasper John Obico, Fernando Aurigue, Dr. Rosario Rubite, Wally Suarez, Dr. Victor Amoroso, and Dr. Maria Melanie Medecillo-Guiang.

On the last day of the show (Feb. 23), the speakers are going to be Michael Caballes, Michael Ferrero (Australia), Ponchit Ponce Enrile, Cris Siegfrid Onari, Rey Pimentel, Dr. Maria Luisa Guevarra, and Prof. Raymundo Lucero.

Post-conference tour

Concluding the event is an exclusive post-conference tour, providing an immersive experience in some of the country’s most celebrated horticultural hubs, including Unigreen, Agrikultura, and Insular Botanical Garden Inc.

 

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