The word yakal used be associated with the tree whose scientific name is Hopea plagata (misspelled in old literature as Hopea flagata). Today, the word is associated with the tree listed in scientific texts as Shorea astylosa.
ya·kál
kind of lumber tree
Shorea astylosa is a species of plant in the Dipterocarpaceae family. It is endemic to the Philippines.
A closely related species from other parts of Southeast Asia — Shorea laevis — has also been referred to by wood experts as yakal.
The resinous wood’s color can range from yellow to golden red. It is a hard and golden mahogany type frequently used products and surfaces. A high-grade timber, yakal can tolerate extreme hot and cold weathers, so it is ideal for outdoor use as well.
It is not uncommon to see this hardwood used for woodcrafts such as furniture pieces (tables, chairs, daybeds…), as well as for art carvings.
Other local woods widely used in the Philippines: kamagong, dungon, ipil, dao, tindalo, molave, guijo, narra, langka, saplungan
