Our Story

Our Roots

The Philippines’ Premier Bonsai Club

An exhibition-grade Philippine bonsai displayed on a carved wooden stand

Since 1973The Philippines’ premier bonsai club

The Philippine Bonsai Society, Inc. (PBSI) stands as the premier bonsai organization in the Philippines, uniting enthusiasts who share a passion for cultivating and appreciating the living art of bonsai. Founded in 1973 from a casual gathering of dedicated bonsai practitioners, the society steadily grew in purpose and membership, eventually becoming a formally recognized non-stock, non-profit organization registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 1975.

PBSI was guided in its formative years by its visionary founding President, Rose Laurel-Avanceña, whose leadership laid the foundation for decades of growth and excellence.

Our PhilosophyMore than horticulture

At its core, PBSI promotes bonsai not only as a horticultural practice, but as an artistic, cultural, and meditative discipline that harmonizes nature and human creativity.

The society is deeply committed to education, preservation, and community building — advancing bonsai knowledge through workshops, demonstrations, lectures, field activities, and exhibitions for both beginners and seasoned practitioners.

RecognitionOn the world stage

Distinguished as the nation’s leading bonsai authority, PBSI has earned international recognition and maintains active engagement with the global bonsai community.

The society is affiliated with respected international organizations such as the World Bonsai Friendship Federation (WBFF), the Asia-Pacific Bonsai and Suiseki Convention and Exhibition (ASPAC), the Asia-Pacific Bonsai Friendship Federation (ABFF), and Bonsai Clubs International (BCI). Through these affiliations, PBSI continues to uphold international standards while proudly showcasing Filipino bonsai artistry on the world stage.

A Growing Legacy53 years and rooted nationwide

Now celebrating its 53rd year, PBSI boasts a nationwide membership supported by vibrant local affiliate clubs across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

One of the society’s most significant milestones is its pioneering role in establishing the Philippine Bonsai Judges Association (PBJA) — an all-Filipino body dedicated to providing international-standard bonsai education, evaluation, and judging, further solidifying the Philippines’ standing in the global bonsai community.

Past Presidents

Leaders who have guided the society through the decades.

1973 – 1974
Rose Laurel-AvanceñaFounding President
1975 – 1976
Aurora Villanueva
1979 – 1980
Valentina “Tinang” Patacsil
1981 – 1982
Hortencio “Hortence” Sobreviñas
1983 – 1984
Modesto “Mody” Manglicmot, Jr.
1987 – 1988
Atty. Poncevic Ceballos
1989 – 1990
Modesto Manglicmot, Jr.
1991 – 1992
Dr. Rodolfo Reyes
1993 – 1994
Dr. Rogelio Mendiola
1995 – 1997
Atty. Poncevic “Vic” Ceballos
1998 – 1999
Felicidad “Fely” S. Gupit
2000 – 2001
Renato “Rene” Reyes
2002 – 2004
Willi Hann
2005 – 2013
Roberto “Bobby” Gopiao
2014 – 2015
Arch. Augusto “Aug” Rustia
2018 – 2019
Roberto “Bobby” P. Gopiao
2020 – 2021
Angelito “Boy” Pangilinan
2022 – 2023
Maria Fatima “Yumie” Gupit
2024 – Present
Cristina Anne Dionisio

Heritage & ExcellenceStewards of the Philippine bonsai movement

Throughout the years, PBSI has stood as a leading steward of the Philippine bonsai movement — spearheading national and regional exhibitions, competitions, summits, and educational initiatives that bring together the country’s most distinguished bonsai artists and collections.

Through public exhibitions, strategic collaborations, and sustained outreach, the society advances environmental consciousness, artistic discipline, and cultural continuity. As it presents world-class bonsai exhibitions across the archipelago, PBSI honors heritage, elevates excellence, and forges lasting bonds among practitioners and audiences — ensuring that the timeless art of bonsai continues to flourish for generations to come.