Sakura-like, pink flowering trees captivating visitors at Benguet State University - but not what people think

FEATURE

Benguet, Philippines – For a moment, it felt like spring had arrived straight from Japan as clusters of pink blossoms transformed the grounds of Benguet State University (BSU) into a scene reminiscent of Tokyo’s famous sakura season.

Students paused to take photos beneath the blooming trees, visitors admired the vibrant pink canopy, and social media quickly filled with snapshots of what many believed were cherry blossoms flourishing in the cool highlands of Benguet.

But according to the College of Forestry–BSU, the eye-catching trees are not sakura at all.

The flowering trees currently drawing crowds across the campus are Tabebuia rosea, a tropical ornamental species native to Central and South America. Known for its massive display of pink-to-white trumpet-shaped flowers, the tree is often called the “Sakura of the Philippines” or “Pink Poui” because of how closely its blooms resemble Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms.

What makes the tree even more striking is its blooming pattern. During flowering season, the branches shed much of their leaves, allowing clusters of soft pink flowers to dominate the canopy—creating a dreamlike landscape similar to the sakura-lined parks often seen in Japan.

In a Facebook post on May 8, the BSU College of Forestry explained that while the tree adds beauty and color to the surroundings, it is still considered a non-native species that must be managed responsibly.

The college warned that widespread and uncontrolled propagation of exotic ornamental trees may affect local biodiversity by competing with native plants for space, sunlight, and nutrients.

Still, the blooming Tabebuia rosea has become a seasonal attraction in BSU, offering visitors a rare “sakura-like” experience in the Cordillera highlands while also sparking conversations about conservation and the importance of protecting native Philippine trees and ecosystems.