Benguet State University (BSU) is ambitiously planning to expand its bamboo forest to 100 hectares, aligning with efforts to enhance reforestation, support the bamboo textile industry, and advance engineered bamboo production. Dr. Roscinto Ian Lumbres, the university’s vice president for research and extension, shared during a recent briefing that the initiative, which kicked off in 2024, has already seen the planting of propagules this year. The project is supported by a PHP5 million fund from Senator Loren Legarda, which has been utilized for the propagation of planting materials in San Pascual, Tuba, Benguet.
The initial phase of reforestation has targeted a two-hectare area at Benguet Corp. in Itogon and the BSU compound in Mankayan. Dr. Lumbres highlighted the goal to plant ‘bayog’ and ‘giant’ bamboo species across at least 20 hectares this year, emphasizing that these species are indigenous to the region and the country. The university has also forged partnerships with cooperatives and a manufacturer of engineered bamboo to boost productivity and support the wood industry.
This project is part of a broader regional bamboo initiative aimed at increasing bamboo production in the Cordillera. BSU is exploring innovative uses of bamboo, including the development of products like soap, moving beyond traditional items such as baskets, bags, and furniture. The Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has established a Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub at Abra State University in Lagangilang to further enhance the country’s bamboo fiber production.
The Japanese government has shown keen interest in BSU’s bamboo forest revival, with plans to finalize a partnership next week. BSU President Dr. Kenneth Laruan emphasized the timeliness of the project, coinciding with the university’s 39th charter anniversary celebration themed ‘Advancing knowledge, research, technology, and environmental stewardship for a sustainable tomorrow.’ He stressed the importance of environmental programs in the Cordillera, noting their potential impact on other regions.