BAYBAY CITY, Leyte — Farmers and agricultural extension workers gathered at the PhilRootCrop Center in VSU, Baybay City for a three-day Training on Bamboo Production and Management held on October 13–15, 2025. The activity aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to propagate, establish, and manage bamboo plantations—an increasingly important resource in various livelihood sectors.
The training opened with discussions on the current situation of the Philippine bamboo industry, highlighting its economic potential, expanding market demand, and role in sustainable agriculture. Participants explored the different species of bamboo, their physical characteristics, and the wide range of uses associated with each such as construction materials and handicrafts to applications in agriculture and fisheries.
Participants also learned the minimum requirements for establishing a bamboo nursery, including proper site selection, cultural management practices, and propagation techniques. Through hands-on exercises, they practiced identifying suitable planting materials and performed bagging of bamboo propagules. A guided visit to the VSU Bambusetum allowed them to observe and identify various species in the field and collect planting materials to bring home for propagation.
The group also examined the cost and return of a one-hectare bamboo production through a workshop designed to help them understand the economic viability of bamboo farming. Exposure to processing and innovation opportunities was further strengthened through a visit to the VSU Forest Product Innovation Center, where participants learned about the university’s upcoming initiatives in producing forest-based products, including bamboo, with support from DOST.
Another field visit brought the participants to a Learning Site for Agricutlure (LSA) in Tanauan, Leyte, which is establishing a bamboo treatment facility to address the increasing demand for quality bamboo among fisherfolk and local craftsmen. This gave participants a clearer perspective on value-adding opportunities and the importance of proper treatment in maintaining quality for various end users. (?) users? Uses?
As part of their re-entry plan, the 29 participants agreed to cascade their learnings to their fellow AEWs, cooperative members, and farmer-leaders. These activities will be documented and shared through a group chat created for the training batch. Each participant also took home bamboo planting materials to begin propagating in their own farms.
For many of them, the training reshaped the way they view bamboo. John Rey Espinola, a young farmer, reflected: “I used to see bamboo as a simple commodity—easy to grow and manage. But through this training, I realized how complex and valuable it truly is. Bamboo is a promising industry, and this training taught me the scientific approach to growing, managing, and harvesting it.”
Another participant, Riza Tagalog, shared her appreciation for the experience: “As a first timer to attend the training. I made sure that I will learn something valuable. Personally, this training is an eye opener for me, if you look at bamboo from a wider view. It has so many economic importance, from basic housing, agriculture, fisheries, etc.”
Through this activity, ATI-RTC 8 continues to support farmers and extension workers in diversifying their livelihood opportunities by tapping into sustainable and high-potential commodities like bamboo.
