By Abegel Joson, Technology Promotion and Demonstration Services

BATAC CITY, Ilocos Norte — In support of sustainable bamboo enterprise development and environmental conservation, the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), through the Extension Directorate, conducted a two-day Training on Bamboo Production and Management for Sustainable Supply in Support of Textile and Craft Production at OSIS- ILAARRDEC, CRL Compound, Quiling Sur, Batac City on May 28–29, 2026.

The activity was implemented in partnership with the City Government of Batac,) and the Batac Evangelion Ministry Inc. (BEM), bringing together members of the Mabaleng Bamboo Crafts Makers Association and barangay officials from Barangay Maipalig, Batac City.

The training aimed to strengthen the operationalization of the DOST-supported Bamboo Textile Hub established for the Mabaleng Bamboo Crafts Makers Association, enhance the production and sustainable supply of bamboo materials for textile and craft processing, and promote bamboo plantation development as part of watershed rehabilitation and environmental conservation efforts in Batac City.

During the opening program, Batac City Hon. Mark Christian Chua expressed his appreciation to MMSU, BEM, and other partner institutions for their continued support to the bamboo development initiatives of the city. He also acknowledged the invited speakers and technical experts for sharing their knowledge and expertise on bamboo production and management with the participants. He emphasized the many opportunities that bamboo offers, describing it as a highly valuable resource that can be utilized for food, tools, shelter, crafts, textile production, and other livelihood enterprises.

Mayor Chua highlighted that the activity serves as an important preparation for the full operation of the Bamboo Textile Hub in Mabaleng, which is expected to strengthen bamboo-based livelihood opportunities and enterprise development in the city.

He encouraged the participants to fully embrace the program and apply the knowledge gained from the training, stressing that the initiative is intended not only for individual benefit but also for the welfare of their communities and the entire City of Batac.

The mayor further assured the participants of the continued support of the City Government of Batac, together with MMSU and partner agencies, in advancing the bamboo industry in the locality. He also expressed his hope that other barangays in the city will eventually be trained in bamboo production and management to help establish a more sustainable and reliable bamboo supply system.

Bamboo has emerged as an important resource for livelihood generation, enterprise development, and environmental sustainability. However, despite previous interventions on bamboo propagation and nursery establishment, challenges in technical capacity and plantation management limited the sustainability of bamboo nursery operations and propagule production among beneficiaries.

To address these concerns, the training focused on improving participants’ knowledge and skills in bamboo care and management practices, including plantation maintenance, fertilization, watering, clump management, nursery operations, and sustainable harvesting techniques. The activity also highlighted the importance of establishing a reliable and sustainable bamboo supply system to support existing and future bamboo-based enterprises in the locality.

Recognizing the strategic role of Barangay Maipalig in watershed conservation, barangay officials from the area were integrated into the training to support future bamboo development initiatives in the community. Located in the upper stream area where major water sources originate, Barangay Maipalig plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and water sustainability.

Through the capacitation of local officials and community leaders, the initiative seeks to enhance bamboo production and rehabilitation efforts within watershed areas, contributing to improved water resource conservation while complementing the increasing demand for bamboo materials needed by the Bamboo Textile Hub and local bamboo craft enterprises.

The training also included values reorientation and transformation sessions designed to strengthen organizational cohesiveness, teamwork, accountability, and shared responsibility among members of the association and partner communities. Organizers emphasized that strong organizational commitment is essential in sustaining bamboo nursery operations, plantation management, and collaborative production initiatives.

The speakers for this two-day training included Prof. Beatriz S. Malab (Senior Pastor, BEM Inc.), Dr. Stanley C. Malab (Former Director of ILAARRDEC), Mr. Bonne Jovi J. Orteza (MMSU Research), and Mr. Charlie Maine G. Cacactin (CAFSD).

Additionally, Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials were distributed to support the lectures. These will serve as a ready reference for participants following the training.

Through this collaborative undertaking, MMSU and its partner agencies reaffirm their commitment to empowering communities through science-based interventions, sustainable livelihood development, environmental stewardship, and strengthened local bamboo industries in Batac City and nearby communities.

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