Ex-Yano frontman Dong Abay spends time with grieving Slapshock bassist Lee Nadela

Former Yano vocalist Dong Abay shared a photo of him today, December 3, planting a tree with former Slapshock bassist Lee Nadela.

The picture was taken on a farm somewhere in Alaminos, Pangasinan.

“Planting a rainbow eucalyptus tree (bagras) with my friend, Lee Nadela at River Soul Farms,” the veteran singer-songwriter wrote on Instagram.

Lee was a bandmate of Jamir Garcia - the frontman of the heavy metal band Slapshock who was found dead in his home last November 26 at the age of 42 in an apparent suicide.

Tree planting could be interpreted in many ways particularly in light of recent events.

Eucalyptus is associated with awakening. The rainbow eucalyptus tree symbolizes the acceptance of vulnerability as a strength and moving forward with courage.

Spiritually, trees represent life and growth.

Planting a tree to some symbolizes a certain point in a person's life and the anticipation of growth in succeeding years.

Others, meanwhile, plant a tree as a living memorial to honor someone's life.

Jamir's untimely passing came after it was reported that Slapshock had disbanded brought by friction among members.

Lee and guitarist Jerry Basco accused Jamir, drummer Chi Evora, and lead guitarist Lean Ansing of withdrawing royalties and sponsorship earnings without their knowledge and permission.

Jamir's partner, Jaya Crisostomo, voiced out her frustrations and anger to Jamir's bandmates days after the tragic incident.

“Hindi niya deserve ang nangyari sa kanya. Sinira siya ng mga taong inggit, pero hangng sa huling hininga, kayo pa din ang prinotektahan niya,” Jaya said on a Facebook Live video.

“Lalabas din ang katotohanan. Hindi habangbuhay maghahari-harian ang kasamaan niyo.”

Lee, meanwhile, issued his statement, saying, “I am deeply saddened over the tragedy that happened to my friend and bandmate Jamir Garcia.

“We may have had differences, pero mas mahaba at mas marami kaming mabuting pinagsamahan for 23 years.”

He added, “Mahal ko siya na parang kapatid at nalungkot ako na ito ang pinili niyang paraan.”

Lee then said that he would answer Jaya's accusations at the right time but at the moment “with all due respect to Jamir and family, we will mourn his passing. Rest in peace, pare, Jamir.”