The Senate has approved a measure seeking to strengthen the Philippine bamboo industry through a national development roadmap, expanded government support and livelihood opportunities for local producers.
Senate Bill No. 2495, or the proposed Kawayan Act, was passed on third and final reading on Thursday, with 16 affirmative votes and no negative votes or abstentions.
Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, sponsor of the measure, said the local bamboo industry has struggled to keep pace with neighboring countries.
“Despite the wide use of bamboo in the country, however, the truth is that our bamboo industry has plateaued over the years. Here in Southeast Asia, we are lagging behind Vietnam and Indonesia in the promotion of bamboo as a product,” he said.
The bill seeks to establish a five-year Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Roadmap covering the propagation, processing, commercialization and promotion of bamboo and bamboo-based products.
It also seeks to revive the Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Council, which would coordinate government programs, identify suitable plantation areas, facilitate financing and help local producers gain access to markets and technical assistance.
Under the proposal, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources would use bamboo in at least 25% of its annual reforestation and rehabilitation programs in suitable areas.
The Department of Education would also be required, as far as practicable, to source at least 25% of its annual school desk and armchair requirements for public elementary and secondary schools from bamboo.
The measure likewise proposes allocating 20% of the Department of Science and Technology’s assistance funds for small and medium enterprises to bamboo-based businesses under specified programs.IMT
