Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) has forged a three-year partnership with Bella Aurora Bamboo Innovations (BABI) to advance the research, propagation, and commercial development of iron bamboo, with the goal of expanding the industry across Northern Luzon.

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement signed by MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr. and BABI Proprietress Jamielyn Dela Cruz.

The agreement seeks to combine the university's research and technical expertise with BABI's operational experience to promote sustainable livelihoods, environmental conservation, and the wider adoption of iron bamboo in the region.

Based in Claveria, Cagayan, BABI operates what is described as the only iron bamboo plantation in Northern Philippines. Under the agreement, MMSU, through its College of Agriculture, Food, and Sustainable Development (CAFSD)—particularly the Department of Forestry and the Bamboo Research, Training, and Processing Center—will provide technical assistance to strengthen the company's operations.

Prior to the signing, CAFSD Dean Dr. Charlie Batin and faculty members from the Department of Forestry conducted a field assessment to evaluate the growth, adaptability, and ecological and economic potential of iron bamboo under Ilocos Norte conditions.

Over the next three years, MMSU will provide technical expertise in nursery and stand management, rehabilitate unidentified bamboo clumps, and conduct training programs and technology workshops for BABI personnel and local farm workers. The university will also introduce value-adding technologies to improve bamboo-based products and production systems.

Batin said the collaboration strengthens partnerships among the academe, industry, and local communities while advancing research and livelihood development.

He added that the partnership aims to expand bamboo research and innovation while creating sustainable opportunities that will benefit students, stakeholders, and future generations.

The agreement also provides for BABI's integration into national and international bamboo research networks to facilitate data sharing and promote sustainable bamboo enterprises.

As part of the collaboration, BABI will serve as MMSU's exclusive regional partner for iron bamboo. In turn, the university will use field monitoring data and operational insights from the plantation to support academic instruction, research, and community extension programs, further reinforcing its role in environmental stewardship and agricultural innovation.