In a vibrant display of cultural pride and environmental stewardship, Barangay Baikingon in Cagayan de Oro City launched its inaugural Bamboo Festival on December 15, 2024. The event, spearheaded by Barangay Chairperson Ronello Gumapac, aims to cement the village’s status as a leading bamboo producer while fostering a deeper appreciation for this versatile plant among residents and visitors alike.
Gumapac emphasized the festival’s dual purpose: to celebrate the integral role of bamboo in the community’s identity and to promote its sustainable use. ‘Bamboo is woven into the fabric of our community. Through this festival, we aim to foster a sense of pride and responsibility towards our natural resources,’ he stated.
The festival, which was conceptualized three years ago in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology, features a range of activities designed to engage the community. These include bamboo planting initiatives, educational workshops, exhibitions, seminars, and competitions themed around bamboo.
Last year, Baikingon participated in a Guinness World Record attempt for the simultaneous planting of bamboo across Mindanao, underscoring its commitment to bamboo conservation. Despite the plant’s significance in local livelihoods, construction, and cultural practices, its population has been dwindling due to urbanization and unsustainable practices.
The festival seeks to reverse this trend by raising awareness about bamboo’s ecological and economic benefits. Baikingon is collaborating with environmental groups, schools, businesses, and local government agencies to ensure the festival’s success. The village is also seeking partnerships with NGOs to secure additional funding and support.
Gumapac views the festival as a stepping stone towards a sustainable future, demonstrating that even small communities can drive significant environmental change. If the festival proves successful, it could become an annual event, positioning Baikingon as a model for sustainable bamboo management and ecotourism.