Second corpse flower found in Bulacan forest

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Another rare corpse flower or Rafflesia lagascae has been found in the forest of Doña Remedios Trinidad town in Bulacan, according to the office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Central Luzon.

The flower, also known as corpse lily, is a parasitic and endemic plant species known for its large bloom and stench that resembles the smell of decaying flesh.

The stench attracts flies to pollinate the flower.

DENR-Central Luzon executive director Ralph Pablo said the discovery of the Rafflesia lagascae is proof that the jungles of Doña Remedios Trinidad remain biologically rich and undisturbed.

“This discovery strengthens our resolve to continue enhancing conservation initiatives and partnerships with local government units and communities to protect these critical habitats,” Pablo said.

Dennis Vergara, chief of the community environment and natural resources office based in Baliwag, said the rare plant was documented during a recent forest resources assessment activity conducted by the CENRO along with environment and natural resources officers of Doña Remedios Trinidad.

Records show that it was the second documented sighting of Rafflesia lagascae in Doña Remedios Trinidad.

The first sighting was recorded in 2022.