It may not be obvious at first, but mathematics and nature work hand in hand.

The natural
phenomena we notice around us can actually trace its roots to mathematical concepts. And the
Philippines, being a hotbed for biological diversity, is definitely no stranger to having an
abundance of natural sights and wonders, which further implies that mathematical concepts
can be found around the country. To demonstrate the relationship between math and nature,
for this video, we will embark on a mathematical tour around the Philippines.
Firstly, we travel to Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, known as the Surfing Capital of the
Philippines. It also is a well-renowned surfing spot worldwide, being host to an international
surfing competition. When we watch the surfers take on massive waves, we can notice that the
tidal waves they’re riding are an example of a golden spiral, a curve based on the golden ratio.
Our tour takes us next to Negros Oriental, where we can find the Canlaon Century Balete Tree.
This specific balete tree is the oldest recorded tree in the island, with botanists from Siliman
University approximating its age to be 1,328 years. If one takes a closer look at its branches,
one can notice its intricate, systemic network which resemble fractals. The branch system is
self-replicating, the branches repeat itself as it forms new sub-branches.

Next up, in Palawan, we can find an endemic bird species known as the
Palawan peacock-pheasant, an animal that is a significant part of the
Palawan indigenous people's culture. The male sports a striking
iridescent blue-violet pattern on its feathers, and when its tail expands
during courtship or as an anti-predatory measure, the blue eyespots
across their feathers seem to follow a symmetric pattern. This is an
example of bilateral symmetry.
For the final stop, we take a look at the longest river in the Philippines,
the Cagayan River in the northern part of Luzon. We can notice it
follows a pattern as well. It meanders; which refers to the way it curves
back and forth as it flows across the landscape. The river curves
regularly and consistently across the Cagayan Valley through erosion.
Nature seems to be something spontaneous, something instinctual.
Nature doesn’t follow formulas or pay any regard to numbers, but
regardless, we can see the concepts of mathematics play out.
Mathematics is something inherent to nature, and is a vital component
to making sure the world functions in harmony.