Field researchers on USAID’s Sustainable Interventions for Biodiversity, Oceans, and Landscapes project recorded the measurements of a towering Manggis tree in Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape (MMPL) in southern Palawan, Philippines. They did this as part of the comprehensive ecological assessment they conducted to determine the status of species, habitats, and threats in the protected area. Manggis trees are towering species commonly found in old-growth forests of MMPL. Together with the rich soil and other trees in old-growth forests, Manggis trees are vital for sequestering carbon in the atmosphere. However, with the increase in activities such as timber poaching, slash-and-burn farming, charcoal making, fuelwood collection, and construction/development activities, the Manggis and old-growth forests are under threat. USAID is working with the protected area management office in MMPL to update their management plans through the results of the Agency’s biodiversity assessment. This will help local stakeholders craft better-informed programs and policy decisions for protecting the forests and biodiversity of MMPL to mitigate the impacts of climate change.