BACNOTAN, La Union (PIA) — In Bacnotan, La Union, a quiet movement is growing—not from tradition, but from tenacity, creativity, and plants that bite back.
At just 23 years old, Astley Jude Naviso, founder of MonsterPot Plant Nursery, is proving that sustainability can be beautiful, a little scary—and profitable.
What began as a college hobby in Baguio City has blossomed into the country’s first wildlife-certified carnivorous plant nursery, located in Sitio Maragayap.
With species sourced responsibly from Thailand and Mindanao, Naviso has been guided by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Now, he has grown more than rare plants, and is cultivating an entire “ecosystem of awareness.”
“Carnivorous plants teach us about balance. They thrive not on fertilizers but by adapting—by finding their own way to survive. I think that’s something we, as a generation, can learn from,” Naviso shared.
Community impact
The success of MonsterPot is more than a personal milestone—it is a showcase of how government support can fuel innovation.
The municipal government of Bacnotan, in its push for inclusive and green economic opportunities, sees Naviso’s venture as a model for youth-led, community-based entrepreneurship.
Thanks to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) La Union, MonsterPot gained access to capacity-building programs, local fairs, and now occupies a spot at The Hive Bacnotan Pasalubong Hub—offering tourists and locals a chance to bring home a piece of nature that literally eats pests.
“As one of Mr. Naviso’s mentees, we offer free entrepreneurship training to inspire more young innovators to follow his path,” DTI La Union director Victoria Ordoño said.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) also recognizes the nursery’s potential in promoting biodiversity and ecological balance.
At a time when climate-smart farming is essential, MonsterPot offers an alternative model for pest control and sustainable agri-preneurship.
Green business
MonsterPot’s collection of Venus flytraps, pitcher plants, and terrarium ecosystems is not just trendy—it’s educational.
The nursery hosts educational tours, serving as a living classroom where students and plant lovers can explore the fascinating world of carnivorous plants.
Through guided visits, it fosters curiosity, environmental awareness, and a stronger appreciation for biodiversity and sustainable farming.
With prices ranging from P200 to P5,000, each plant carries a subtle reminder: caring for nature is a form of action.
Now Department of Tourism (DOT)-accredited as a “Farm Tourism Camp” and under DENR monitoring, MonsterPot has also earned national recognition, becoming a finalist in the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Excellence in Ecology and Economy Awards, competing against major industry players.
Naviso’s edge? Genuine passion, environmental compliance, and strong community ties.
“I may be young, but this business stands on science, legality, and love for nature,” he said.
Nerwina Pia Corsino, information officer of the DENR-Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) La Union, emphasized their office’s commitment to monitoring permit holders.
“They have been issued a Wildlife Farm Permit by our office, and we also conduct regular monitoring of our permit holders to ensure that they are faithfully complying with the terms and conditions of their permits,” she added.
Growing hope
In Bacnotan, MonsterPot is more than just a quirky nursery—it is a symbol of what’s possible when passion meets policy.
And in La Union, it represents the province’s growing identity—not only as a tourism hotspot but also as a home for youth-driven ecological enterprises.
Whether you are a budding plantito, a curious student, or a farmer exploring new paths, there is something to learn from a plant that catches bugs to thrive—and from a young man who turned that fascination into national recognition.
So the next time you pass through Bacnotan, don’t just chase the waves or waterfalls.
Look for a small pot with big potential because sometimes, the fiercest things in nature don’t roar—they bloom. (CCMT/KJCR/KJC, PIA La Union)
