Bamboo is a resource that grows quickly, is renewable, and is simple to cultivate. It is an incredibly flexible material with numerous use such as construction, clothing, food, and fuel. This wonderful plant grows in both tropical and temperate areas and is extremely durable, requiring no pesticides or herbicides to thrive.

Ingredients from the black bamboo stalk are used to treat renal disorders in China. The roots and leaves of this plant have also been used to treat venereal disease and cancer. According to accounts from a tiny community in Indonesia, water from the culm (the side branches) is used to effectively treat bone disorders.

Shoots are used mainly in Asian food preparations. In Japan, the antioxidant properties of the bamboo skin prevent bacterial growth, and are used as natural food preservatives.

Exotic woods, such as mango, are frequently utilized in Oriental rugs. Purchasing a bamboo rug ensures the preservation of a tree. The possibilities and its uses are endless.

Seeing its economic potential, the Agricultural Training Institute in Central Visayas based in Cabawan, Tagbilaran City, Bohol conducted the Be Amazed with Bambooing: Training of Trainers on Sustainable Bamboo Production and Enterprise.

The training aims to capacitate the Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in the region on bamboo production, processing, value adding and marketing. Specifically, discuss the ecological & economic importance of bamboo; examine the value chain of bamboo; identify the important bamboo species in the Philippines and in the world and its importance; enumerate the propagation techniques and nursery establishment; perform and demonstrate the rehabilitation, harvest and post-harvest handling for bamboo.

“It is a pleasure to be part of this great learning experience which really gave me so many insights on the sustainable bamboo production & enterprise. During this seminar I acquired new information and new experience. I learned the problems encountered and the malpractices of harvesting bamboo and in order to correct it is to adapt & apply the 5 basic steps on the bamboo rehabilitation of unmanaged clumps. I am satisfied with the information received during these 5 days seminar", expressed Mr. Niel Clyde A. Rubia -Revegetation Officer/ Farmer-Leader from Carmen Copper Corporation, Inc.

23 participants from across the region participated the activity held on June 26-30, 2023 at Sea Dream Resorts, Sea Dream Drive, Masaplod Sur, Dauin, Negros Oriental.