Wednesday, April 02, 2008 Colting: For the love of Bamboo By Dr. Rogelio Colting R4D Corner
BAMBOO is a perennial grass that can thrive almost anywhere in the world. There are about 1,200 known species of bamboo distributed in the tropical, subtropical and temperate regions. In the Philippines, there are about 48 native and introduced species belonging to 12 genera (Schlegel et. al. 1990, as cited by DENR-CAR, 1991).
One good thing about bamboo is that it lends itself to multiple uses. It is the most utilized non-timber forest products today. It is now looked upon not only as a reforestation species and for soil erosion control but also in demand for the manufacture of various products that cater both to the needs of local and foreign customers. It is widely used in place of timber for housing and housing furniture, and domestic facilities. It is also used in making various agricultural implements, packing materials for vegetables, transport devices and as fodder. Furthermore, young shoots are made as pickles, eaten as salad, or boiled and mixed with leafy vegetables as viand delicacy. Lately, the use of bamboo for ornamental purposes and as carbon sequestrator is also being recognized.
The sharp decline in wood supply and increasingly the expensive cost of lumber has raised the people's consciousness about bamboo and the important things it gives. Now highly in demand as a raw material, its natural sources are being subjected to over cutting and improper harvesting.
Research and development for bamboo in the country is wide ranging. The research themes include taxonomy, propagation, pole production, pole harvesting methods and techniques, bambusetum establishment, growth performances and trail planting local and exotic species. Unfortunately, there is little focus on mass production or development of bamboo plantation in the country.
Considering its economic and ecological importance, a multi-sectoral group was organized recently for the implementation of the Cordillera Bamboo Development Program (Corbamdev). The group known as the Cordillera Bamboo Development Council (Corbamdev Council) is composed of members and representatives from government institutions, non-government organizations (NGOs), indigenous peoples group, religious and civic groups.
The organization of the council is an offshoot of an advocacy on Bamboo For Life spearheaded by Undersecretary Edgardo Manda, president of the Rotary Club of Makati Central (RCMC). Undersecretary Manda and the RCMC officers have been coming to Baguio and La Trinidad since last year meeting with groups or individuals who might be interested in helping in the bamboo advocacy.
The officers of the Corbamdev Council were inducted into office by no less than Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at the Mansion House last March 20, 2008.
The Corbamdev program will start in Benguet as pilot province for CY 2008 and will expand to other Cordillera provinces over a five-year implementation plan. The project management office will be based at the College of Forestry, Benguet State University.
