A series of trials examining fertilizer-shading interactions on the island of Leyte (Philippines, 11°N) revealed that the endemic dipterocarp mayapis (Shorea palosapis) benefits from shade trees, either directly above or to the east, during the early stages of plantation establishment. Although it can attain 2 cm/year diameter increment in plantations, mayapis exhibits poor growth and survival under wide spacing, when waterlogged and in exposed bare soil. Indications that early growth can be hampered by high soil temperatures warrant further research and development of practical planting techniques for smallholders.