GALLERY

The Philippine Bonsai Society, Inc. (PBSI) started and was organized as a non-stock, non-profit organization in 1973 with founding president Rose Laurel Avancena at its helm. Beginning with a core group of 15 founding members, its membership base has currently grown to over a hundred active bonsai enthusiasts. It also has a sizeable following among provincial bonsai clubs that actively participate in PBSI sponsored bonsai competitions, firmly establishing it as the premiere bonsai organization in the country. The PBSI is internationally recognized among the bonsai global community, the likes of which include the Bonsai Club International (BCI), Asia-Pacific Bonsai and Suiseki Friendship Federation (ABFF), and the World Bonsai Friendship Federation (WBFF). It is also recognized by the leading proponents in bonsai art - the venerable Nippon Bonsai Association (NBA) of Japan and the National Bonsai Association of Taiwan (NBAT).

The PBSI has definitely gone a long way when a curious public first saw miniature local trees species taking center stage during the exhibits of the Philippine Garden Club in 1973. The PBSI then started to hold its shows at the Manila Seedling Bank Garden Center along EDSA corner of Quezon Avenue during the 70's resulting into much success. It made its presence felt in the north when it held an exhibit at the Paskuhan Village in San Fernando, Pampanga for the Bonsai Fiesta in 1998. The group also held exhibits at the Filinvest Mall in Alabang, Robinson's Place in Ermita, Manila and the SM Megamall Art Center in Mandaluyong City. The PBSI gained more recognition and a wider audience when the exhibits where held at the SM Megatrade Hall and at the Shangri-La Mall in Mandaluyong City. It grew in response to the heartening public reception and the increasing number of bonsai fanciers who have seen the tremendous development and refinement of Filipino Bonsai artists.