Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center | Quezon City

Information

Landmark: Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
City: Quezon City
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center, Quezon City, Philippines, Asia

The Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center is a 22.7-hectare nature reserve and zoological park in Quezon City. It serves as an urban forest and the central rescue center for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Visual Characteristics

The park is characterized by a sprawling man-made lagoon at its center, surrounded by dense tropical foliage, bamboo groves, and open grassy meadows. The landscape includes paved walkways, stone cottages, and several administrative buildings. The Wildlife Rescue Center area features enclosures for various animals, primarily those confiscated from illegal trade or surrendered by owners.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Elliptical Rd, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila.

Access: The main gate is located along North Avenue, with an additional entrance along the Elliptical Road.

Transport: Accessible via MRT-3 (North Avenue Station) or MRT-7 (Quezon Memorial Station). Numerous buses and jeepneys passing through Commonwealth Avenue or North Avenue stop near the park.

Entry: Admission requires a nominal fee (standard rates for adults, students, and children).

Historical & Ecological Origin

Originally part of the Quezon Memorial Park, it was established as a separate entity in the 1950s and later named in honor of Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. in 1986. Ecologically, it is a critical "green lung" for Metro Manila, housing a diverse range of indigenous and exotic flora. It acts as the primary repository for sick, injured, or confiscated wildlife in the Philippines.

Key Highlights & Activities

Wildlife Rescue Center: Houses raptors (like the Philippine Eagle), reptiles, and various mammal species undergoing rehabilitation.

Lagoon and Fishing: A central water feature where visitors can engage in leisure activities or enjoy the scenery.

Botanical Gardens: Featuring a wide variety of Philippine tree species and ornamental plants.

Picnic Areas: Designated spots for families and groups, featuring stone benches and shaded pavilions.

Photography: A popular venue for nature photography and pre-wedding shoots due to its lush backdrop.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park includes public restrooms, a visitor center, and several stone cottages available for rent. The paths are generally wide and suitable for walking and light exercise. There is an amphitheater for public events. 5G cellular coverage is reliable throughout the open areas.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open daily from 07:00 to 17:00. Early mornings are best for bird watching and avoiding the midday heat. Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends.

Facts & Legends

The park is often cited as a "mini-forest" within the city, providing a rare refuge for local urban biodiversity. It serves as a major educational site for students and researchers focusing on Philippine wildlife conservation.