Philippine Rants

In this immersive episode of 'Crime Pays But Botany Doesn't,' host and guest Johnny Altamonte, co-founder of the Philippine Taxonomic Initiative (PTI), take listeners deep into the biodiverse yet rapidly vanishing forests of the Philippines. The episode unfolds over a multi-day expedition to a remote, understudied forest area, where they document plant species, collect herbarium specimens, and confront the relentless encroachment of agriculture, logging, and development. Johnny and his team, including botanist Jason, emphasize the critical role of citizen science and volunteer-driven research in filling gaps left by underfunded government agencies. They highlight the alarming rate of deforestation—each year, more forest is cleared for farming and resorts—and the urgent need for legal protection. The episode also delves into the cultural and historical forces shaping conservation, from Spanish colonialism’s demonization of sacred trees to the modern-day commodification of nature. Amid the ecological crisis, the hosts celebrate the wonder of biodiversity, from giant pandanus with 'dick-like' prop roots to the intricate symbiosis between figs and wasps, urging listeners to cultivate curiosity and reverence for the living world.