Garden Club Champions Guava — the poor man’s humble fruit and Filipino superfruit

At its September general assembly, held recently at the Acacia Hotel, Bacolod City, the Negros Occidental Garden Club turned its attention to one of the country’s most overlooked fruits: the guava. The presentation, billed as “The Poor Man’s Humble Fruit,” was hosted by the club’s Waling‑Waling Group, represented by Vice Chairs Jean Visitation and Zeny Guzon, who reminded members of guava’s remarkable qualities and enduring relevance.

Long regarded as a “backyard fruit,” guava is in fact one of the most affordable and nutritious foods available. It is unusually high in protein for a fruit, providing more than two grams per 100 grams, and is exceptionally rich in Vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants that support immunity, digestion and heart health. Minerals such as potassium and copper further enhance its role in maintaining blood pressure, fluid balance and energy metabolism. In short, guava offers a nutritional profile that rivals and even surpasses many imported fruits, yet remains inexpensive and abundant in local markets.

Beyond its health benefits, guava is versatile. Its leaves are brewed into teas for stomach ailments, while the fruit is enjoyed fresh, made into jams and juices, or incorporated into savory dishes. More recently, guava has even found a place in perfumery, with its tropical fragrance capturing the essence of the islands. For many families, guava trees growing freely in backyards provide a virtually cost‑free source of nourishment, making it a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness.

The Waling‑Waling Group’s presentation urged members to reconsider guava’s place in Filipino life. Too often taken for granted, it deserves recognition as a superfruit of health, heritage and sustainability. By championing guava — the Poor Man’s Humble Fruit — the Garden Club reinforced its mission of promoting appreciation for local plants and produce, encouraging the community to rediscover the value of what grows abundantly in Philippine soil.

The presentation proved highly engaging, with members enthusiastically joining a lively Q&A session and claiming guava plants and fruits as prizes for correct answers. Spontaneous community dancing and spirited music added to the festive atmosphere, while heartfelt testimonials underscored the value of the topic.

Congratulations to the Waling‑Waling Group for their excellent hosting, presentation and lecture on The Poor Man’s Humble Fruit: Guava. Their efforts ensured the assembly was not only informative but also memorable and enjoyable for all.* (Robert Harland)