Bitaog: The Philippine Centennial Tree

Magallanes is the 4th class municipality in the province of Agusan del Norte, Philippines. Its was named after the surname of Ferdinand Magellan, a maritime explorer from Portugal. Magallanes is a place known to be rich in history because of its many historical sites found in the area. One of its most historic site is the gigantic 500 years old Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) tree. Local historian Florante More, who nominated the Bitaog tree as the oldest tree in 1998, said the trunk of the tree measures 290 centimeters in diameter. It was officially given the title of The Philippine Centennial tree. It is approximately 500 years old with a diameter of 290 cm. It is claimed to be the oldest tree in the Philippines. For a long time after being officially bestowed the honor as the Centennial Tree by the Philippine Centennial Commission headed by former Vice President Laurel (1999-2000).

The Bitaog’s trunk is short with low big branches and a dense spreading crown. The bark outside is rough, cracky, dark brown to blackish. Its leaves are simple opposite, leathery, and oblong. The inflorescence’s subbranch, occasionally with three flowered branches. Flowers are snowy, white, fragrant with numerous yellow stamens.Fruits in a small bunch or drupe. They are round, smooth, with green exocarp measuring 3-4 cm in diameter. Its yellow seeds are enclosed in thin, dark brown cork and thin, brittle light brown shell with a diameter of 2-3 cm.

Last June 23, 2017 the large branches of the Bitaog was broke according to the residence living near the tree. The breakage of its large branch is due to the center rot caused by fungus inside the tree. Since the requesting office needs technical assistance from ERDB-FTRRC as to determination of possible solutions on saving the tree, it was then recommended by the ERDB the conduct of “Tree Surgery”. All the exposed parts of the tree was treated with fungicide and was then applied with coal tar as preservative and protection from rain and other elements. The huge cavity will be patched with cement and will be placed with steel bars upon cement application to ensure the toughness and durability of the patches. But before that saddened incident the tree gives abundance and richness to the the places’ history. The historic tree awed local, national and foreign tourists and travelers all over the world.

Bitaog tree is used to be the haven for millions of fireflies that served as a beacon light for fishermen during the night. It became a tourist destination after the Department of Tourism installed a tourist center near the 500-year-old Bitaog tree in Magallanes, Agusan del Norte. Officials of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte and the Department of Tourism inaugurated over the weekend the tourist center to accommodate some 200 daily visitors in the village of Caloc-an in Magallanes to view the tree, which in June 1998, was declared Philippine Centennial Tree. It was given the title of the Philippine Centennial tree because of its long existence.

The tree existed approximately before the year 1523 based on existing set of maps which shows the island of Mindanao with its Northeastern side named “Bitau” and “Batauo”, undoubtedly referring to the Bitaog tree, as it was then the custom of Filipinos to name places after the trees,rocks, mountains and sometimes animals. It is famous for tourists as one of the most fascinating tree in Magallaness. It gives more additional income to the people in Magallanes because of the influx of people in the place. Officials of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte and the Department of Tourism inaugurated the tourist center to accommodate some 200 daily visitors in the village of Caloc-an in Magallanes to view the tree, which in June 1998, was declared Philippine Centennial Tree.

The Bitaog tree is not only a tree, it is a rare hardwood specie. Its survival through the centuries is phenomenal as it grew in a typhoon prone area, being located very near the seashore of the Bahia de Butuan. Bitaugs are littoral-based. Its being chosen as our nation’s centennial tree is not just because of its age but due to certain historical, cultural, political, geographic, cartographic and documentary evidences that satisfied the the criteria of the the search.

The local name of the tree is Bitaog and the scientific name of the Bitaog tree is Calophyllum inophyllum. This Bitaog tree (Calophyllum inophyllum) in Barangay Caloc-an , Magallanes, Agusan del Norte was officially declared the oldest tree in the country. This surviving Bitaog tree also has been a mute witness to many historical events, among others are: The initial evangelization of Mindanao. The birth of Caraga as region during the Spanish colonial period. The struggles of the Agusanons against the Americans and etc.

Local historian Florante A. More said “the tree has been in that place for centuries”. Several historical event has witnessed among of them, Spaniards the initial evangelization of Mindanao, Butuanos to Bohol the departure of the Christianize, the increasing attack of pirates against the natives of Butuan and struggle of the Agusanons against Americans. EliasSeraspi Jr Former DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resourses) Caraga Director and more who submitted the entry to the DENR in March 1998, were invited by the National Committee held at Plaza San Luis computer in Intramuros, Manila last June 5, 1998, to receive the award.

On June 12, celebration of Centennial Anniversary of the Philippine Independence. The project gives recognition to the manifold contribution of tress to our nation’s history culture and socio-economic-development. Magallanes in the winning entry has been rated by the Eric Gallegoon it’s its historical and cultural significance 35%, accessibility 10%,diameter size 20%, crown form 10% and vigor and health 25%. Florante More, who nominate the Bitaog tree (Calophyllum inophyllum) in the Magallanes, Agusan del Norte as the oldest tree in 1998, said the trunk of the tree measures 290 centimeters in diameter.

The 500 years old Bitaog tree giant at Barangay Caloc-an, Magallanes, based on exiting documentation. The tree referred by the European cartographers as it was the custom of Filipino of naming place after tree. Forced labor had to gather for one whole month in the Magallanes-Butuan Viego and dump then into the passage between the islet of the Pungtod and the shore to prevent entering in the Agusan river of big ships. However, during the Colonial era the Spanish galleon, Magallanes on shore area practices of using its lumber as a ship to across.

This survival has been witness of the many historic events that occurred what is Municipality of Magallanes now the present. Among these are: The departure of the Christianized Butuan to Bohol. The many piratical raids of the Moros. The initial evangelization of Mindanao. The birth of Caraga as a region during the Spanish colonial period. The twilight of Spain’s Power. The struggle of the Agusanons against the Americans.

The six persons weren’t enough to cover the whole trunk. According to its official diameter breast height measurement(DBH), the tree has a staggering 270 cm diameter that requires at least 10 persons to hug the whole tree. Because it is a buttress free tree it looks not as big as the other younger century old trees. But the age of the tree is not measured on its buttress or diameter but on the annual ring that hides within its hardened trunk and only scientific way of measuring can determine the exact age of this tree.

Bitaog Tree (Calophyllum inophyllum) under the family Guttiferae and is described generally as a medium-sized to large evergreen tree that averages 8–20 m (25–65 ft) in height with a broad spreading crown of irregular branches. The tree supports a dense canopy of glossy,elliptical leaves, fragrant white flowers, and large round nuts. It grows along coastal areas and adjacent lowland forests.

This tree is usually used as ornamental plant for its grandiose canopy aside from its hard wood that is prized for carving, furniture and boat making. Leaves and fruits are poisonous but the seeds are the source of Calophyllum oil which is said to have a medicinal and healing property for skin diseases and liniment for rheumatism in India.

There are so many people want to visit and see the Bitaog tree in Magallanes even though that they from far away but they still visit from that tree. It is not just a normal tree like other trees we saw around but it is one of the oldest tree that live in Earth. Getting there is easy, from Butuan City you can take a pump boat crossing Agusan River is a way better and enjoyable activity or public transport via Cabadbaran City. The pump boat leaves almost every 40 minutes. Arriving at the port of Magallanes take a tricycle heading for Cabadbaran City and just tell the driver that you shall alight at Bitaus. Usually drivers known this marker but if not tell him to drop you at theCentennial Beach, the last Barangay which is Caloc-an, leaving Magallanes and the fare is Php 10.00.

On September 7, 1997. The Quadricentennial of the Evangelization of Mindanao with Papal legato H.E. Jose T. Cardinal Sanchez visiting in person at Magallanes and to witnessed the Centennial tree.

After a long period of standing, the famous Centennial Tree in Caloc-an, Magallanes had occurred a natural breakage of its huge branches happened on June 23, 2017 due to the center rot caused by fungus inside it.

Since the requesting office needs technical assistance from ERDB-FTRRC as to determination of possible solutions on saving the tree, it was then recommended by the ERDB the conduct of Tree Surgery.

The damage incurred by the tree was estimated about four (4) meters in height and three (3) meters in width. With the use of proper gears and equipment, the operation team cleared all the damaged part of the tree. The operation was under the supervision of For. Rustum A. Aguilos from FTRRC and with the coordination of LGU men.

In the Philippines it is a fact that Filipinos believes in supernatural beliefs.Especially the old people. Some people believe that the reason why the Bitaog tree survives for a very long time it is because of the bad spirits living in the tree. There was once a citizen in the town tries to saw the fragment branch of the tree but the blade of the chainsaw that were used accidentally slipped and hit the man who tries to cut the branch and caused his death. Because of this many rumor had spread that made people believe that there is some evil spirit lived in the tree.

All the exposed parts of the tree was treated with fungicide and was then applied with coal tar as preservative and protection from rain and other elements. The huge cavity will be patched with cement and will be placed with steel bars upon cement application to ensure the toughness and durability of the patches.

Despite of the huge size of the tree that made it looks scary nevertheless, it has uses to cure sickness and disease like diarrhea, ulcer and skin problems. The parts of the tree can also be used in the following: 1. Tree used as shade,shelter, windbreak esplanade planting, reforestation and afforestation species.2. Timber uses for construction, furniture and cabinet work, ship stern, gun stock, musical instrument,cartwheel hubs, vessels, canoes and boats. 3. Bark as a source of tannin, and lastly, 5. Seed can be a source of Bitaog oil or tamanu oil. The oil is a potent healing agent that promote the formation of new tissue, thereby accelerating wound healing and growth of healthy skin a process known scarification.

Bitaog oil is one of the most effective and known cicatrizing agent in nature. The oil with its unusual absorption, mild and pleasant aroma makes it ideal for use in lotions,creams and other cosmetic products. It is also excellent for soap making. The oil when massaged into the skin relieves neuralgia, rheumatism, sprains and sciantica. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The ethyl ether of the oil is used as an intramuscular injection to relieve pain and symptom of leprosy. It also combats head lice and eliminates dandruff. Used as illuminate in the rural areas, the freshly fallen fruits are gathered and the pulp is allowed to ferment. The fermented pulp is removed by hand. The thin shell is then cracked and the kernel is thinly sliced and dried thoroughly under the sun. The extracted oil is used as lamp oil and in the preparation of varnish. Bitaog oil is greenish yellow in color: The kernels contain 60-75% oil. The oil contains 71.5% fatty oil and 28.4% resin. The fatty acids consist largely of palmitic, oleic and stearic acid.

The centennial tree bowed down to the ground after a century of standing; tall and proud and became the witness of different events. But, as the tradition dictates, we say in respect and honor “long live the legend”. Yes, legends may fall but they are not forgotten, instead they live forever. The centennial tree leave a mark to every people as it gave honor for being so strong and standing for 500 years. The branches may break, their leaves perish, their roots uprooted, but the grandeur survives in the hearts of and minds of men, women and children. The tree also gave recognition to the country especially to the town of Magallanes Agusan del Norte. The Bitaog is special and one of a kind for it is one God’s supreme creation and a gift to the humanity and all creatures.

A view coming from a nature lover, seeing this old tree is a pleasure to the eyes as it is now very seldom we encounter a living witness to our past. What we usually adore now in our escapes from our homes are gigantic malls and towering buildings which in fact, ecologically speaking,do not produce any value to the survival of living species on earth . But it is a sad truth that the forests now is seen as source of huge income for some capitalists not considering the lives that depend on it including the human population. This is one of the reasons I migrated to a rural and forested area and live healthier with a greener environment rather than in a concrete jungle where all you will get are diseases due to the polluted habitat coming from those called ‘grand innovations of the century.’

The tourist who visited embraces the centennial tree like they are visiting a valuable thing and we can’t deny the fact that it is indeed a priceless gift to us Filipinos and it is something that we should be proud of because having a tree that stands for so long is rare but we are given a precious gift that we will cherish. The presence of the tree embraces all who come like the sun and rain, never missing their obligation. The tree is a symbol and testament of the Filipinos resilience and strength in times of challenges and storms.

The Filipinos are also known for being so brave despite of the challenges they’ve encountered. The Philippines had faced the onslaught of earthquakes and super typhoons that wrought havoc on property and claimed thousands of lives every single time, fought wars and insurgencies that have divided the people. In relation to this, the Bitaog tree stands for so long that it takes toughness to last. If you are not tough enough it’s easy to be fazed by all the storms. However, the tree remains standing with a stout presence. Though, the centennial tree already broken but it gives so much pride to many. At times like discouragement and negativity comes, we look up to those who remain tough, just like the Bitaog tree who in spite of the bad things happening around us, it stays.

We all have our parts in the society, some are helping the sick and the poor, Some are doing their part to save the planet, some cares for animals. Different helping process but same goal- which is to help the humanity. And for how many years,the Bitaog tree also took it parts and that is to be an epitome of the Filipinos whose resiliency and passion made them survived despite the threat from those who sow fear, uncertainty and doubt.

We,the authors recommend that we all should be like the Bitaog tree, let us make this centennial tree as our inspiration to fight the cruelty of life. It may not be easy since it takes to much courage to survive, and we can’t easily think of the tree as a motivation but it gives us realization about everything that happens, and about life. It is not just a mere tree, it gave history to us that will surely be treasured.

We all should like the Bitaog tree, half of it part already broken but the remaining part still lives, and continue to bring a story to many. Thus, we people should continue to fight regardless of the things that can make us hesitate our existence. There are numerous reasons to be like the half part of the Bitaog tree but we can go through it notwithstanding.

Sources:

https://www.google.com/amp/s/philippineflora.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/bitaog/amp/

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.mindanaotours.com/bitaog-centennial-tree/amp/

http://caraganewscourier.com/the-fall-of-bitaog-long-live-the-legend/

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.pinterest.com/amp/pin/48554502202522366/

https://www.google.com/amp/s/martinvirgil.wordpress.com/2010/03/03/centennial-tree/amp/

http://harrybalais.com/2012/12/photo-duel-wonder-tree-vs-centennial-tree/