The Department of Agriculture-Palawan Research Experiment Station (DA-PRES) MIMAROPA spearheaded a ceremonial bamboo planting for Germplasm Collection Project at the Palawan Agricultural Center in Barangay Irawan recently.
Leading the ceremonial planting activity were DA-MIMAROPA Regional Executive Director, Antonio G. Gerundio, Regional Technical Director for Operations Engr. Elmer T. Ferry, and DA-PRES Agricultural Center Chief III, Librada L. Fuertes.
The project aims to collect different bamboo species in the Philippines as well as from other countries that can be used in further studies and research to increase knowledge in economic benefits and other potentials and is also expected to boost the Bamboo Development Program of Puerto Princesa City and the province of Palawan.
It also targets to broaden the government’s mission to protect the natural resources and the environment, and use as possible resource house for propagation and genebank or library for bamboo collections.
Gerundio explained that the project is in compliance with the directive of Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar and in recognition of the economic benefits from bamboo products like fuel, furniture, textile, and food among others which can also be seen as Additional livelihood for farmers.
He added that the project also needs to have a clear direction towards environmental protection and assistance to farmers based on the road map.
On the other hand, Ferry expressed full support and cooperation for the success of the project. “Patuloy tayong magsama-sama upang maging matagumpay ang proyektong ito upang makamit natin ang mataas na ani at mataas na kita,” he said.
City Agriculturist Melissa U. Macasaet gave an update on the city’s Bamboo Development Roadmap where she said they have started to draft guidelines for the establishment of the bamboo industry in the city. Virtual training has also been conducted with the help of USAID Surge.
Meanwhile, City Environment and Natural Resources Office (City ENRO) chief Atty. Carlo Gomez said the project also plays an important in environmental protection.
“Kami po sa City Enro ay lubos na sumusuporta dahil sa proteksyon na maibibigay at tulong sa ating taong bayan,” Gomez said.
Vice-Mayor Ma. Nancy Socrates who was also present expressed gratitude to the DA for the initiative which she said will be a big boost to the bamboo industry in the city. (DA-RFO IVB/RAFIS)
