Leonard Co's family releases rare photos 15 years after his death

Fifteen years after the killing of renowned Filipino botanist Leonard Co, also known as the 'People's Botanist,' his family, friends, and conservation advocates gathered to commemorate his life and work.

Co, forest guard Sofronio Cortez, and guide Julius Borromeo were tragically killed on November 15, 2010, in Kananga, Leyte, when soldiers mistakenly believed their botanical survey team were rebels and opened fire.

The botanical team was conducting a survey of tree species for a forest restoration project at the time of the incident.

On his 15th death anniversary, family and friends announced public access to rare photographs of native flora taken by Co a few months before he died.

Around 2,000 'new and rescued images' from Co's fieldwork were presented, downloaded to a hard drive by his friend, educator and musician Imelda Sarmiento.

Co's wife, Glenda Flores Co, mentioned that the trial is nearing its end, with the presentation of prosecution and defense complete, and they are now awaiting the verdict.