Go props bamboo industry, cites livelihood potential

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go welcomed the Senate’s approval on third and final reading of a bill seeking to institutionalize the Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Program, saying bamboo could generate jobs and livelihood opportunities while strengthening local enterprises.

The Senate recently approved Senate Bill 2495, which seeks to establish a national framework for developing bamboo production, processing and commercialization.

A stronger bamboo industry could give farmers, workers and small businesses more ways to earn, particularly in rural communities where the plant can be cultivated and processed, Go said.

Its uses range from furniture and construction materials to handicrafts, food and manufactured products, he added.

The measure seeks to develop the entire supply chain, allowing local producers to earn not only from growing bamboo but also from processing, manufacturing and marketing finished products.

Go earlier filed Senate Bill 2240, the proposed Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Act, to promote the industry, create jobs and make Philippine bamboo products more competitive in domestic and international markets.

He said the national program could provide continuity to government initiatives and encourage greater participation from farmers, processors, entrepreneurs and investors.

The Department of Agriculture has also consulted bamboo industry stakeholders on a national roadmap, involving farmers, local governments, government agencies, research institutions and private-sector partners.

Go said the Senate’s work should translate into practical opportunities for Filipinos. He has also supported measures to institutionalize the Sustainable Livelihood Program and help micro and small enterprises access financing, shared facilities and economic opportunities.

Go said bamboo development would require coordination among government agencies, local governments, farmers, businesses and training institutions to improve cultivation, product quality and market access.