Hello everyone! During weekends we take a break from our daily routine and visit places to get in touch with nature. Last week we went on a jog to UP Diliman. This time we visited a place nearby, the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife. Entrance to the park is very affordable. It's just ₱30 ($0.50) for adults and ₱15 for students. We thought there are food stalls inside but we didn't find any, so it’s better to bring your own snacks and water.

Walking through the entrance, you can immediately feel the difference between the city outside and the nature within. The towering trees provide shade to winding paths, while the sound of crickets replace the sound of honking cars. The park is well-maintained and surprisingly clean. Like our visit to the Kiyomasa's Well in Japan, it feels like stepping into a different world, where time seems to slow down giving you the opportunity to relax and escape the city life.

It's Different from Your Typical Zoo

The park’s mission is its role as a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center. The facility takes in injured, confiscated, or surrendered animals, many of which are endemic to the Philippines. Visitors can see a variety of native animals, such as the Philippine eagle, Palawan bearcat, crocodiles, various species of snakes, monkeys, and birds like the Brahminy kite and the Philippine eagle owl. While not a zoo in the traditional sense, the enclosures aim to reflect natural habitats, and the park works hard to keep human interaction minimal to allow animals to recover or await release back into the wild.

White Bellied Sea Eagle

Hornbill

A large snake coiled by the tree branch

Count the Iguanas

Philippine Eagle

Lagoon and Picnic Spots

Inside the park is large man-made lagoon. It's surrounded by shaded walkways and picnic areas. Couples stroll along its edges while families spread out mats for merienda.

For those who simply want to relax, the benches scattered throughout the area offer excellent spots to read a book, sketch, or just enjoy the view.

A couple doing their prenuptial photos in the park

Final Thoughts

The park offers simple, grounded pleasures. Whether you want a quiet walk, the sound of birds and the sight of green everywhere. It's a great destination to escape urban life while teaching kids about Philippine biodiversity. It's also a great place for joggers, photographers, or just a nature lovers.