TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Kalinga’s bamboo industry is receiving a significant boost with support from the Department of Science and Technology – Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI). This initiative aims to elevate Barangay Dupag’s bamboo products onto the national stage by enhancing their design and presentation.
The momentum kicked off with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between DOST-FPRDI and key local partners. The signing ceremony took place at the Kalinga State University (KSU) Research and Development Building on June 5, 2025, during the second day of the 1st Kalinga Bamboo Summit.
This MOU underscores a shared commitment to harness bamboo as a sustainable resource for both environmental conservation and economic development in Kalinga. Partners include the Provincial Bamboo Industry Development Council, Kalinga State University, DepEd-Kalinga, and the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk-Social Action Center. Together, they will collaborate on information exchange, research, use of facilities, lectures, symposia, and community extension activities.
After the summit, FPRDI delegates visited Barangay Dupag, where their assessment of local bamboo craftsmanship helped shape a new direction for the industry in the area.
During the program at the Barangay Dupag Tourism Office, Rico Cabangon, FPRDI National Director, expressed strong interest in supporting Dupag’s Bamboo Craftsmanship Program, focusing on both wood and non-wood bamboo products. He confirmed that FPRDI, in partnership with Kalinga DOST, will provide comprehensive training and seminars to help local artisans develop new techniques and improve their craft.
One exciting innovation is the development of “Bio Jewels”, jewelry made from natural, sustainably sourced materials like bamboo. Cabangon also mentioned that a Memorandum of Agreement with Barangay Dupag will be signed following their partnership discussions with potential provincial bamboo council partners.
Barangay Chairman Marco Pagtud reaffirmed the community’s commitment, sharing that about 280 hectares of Mt. Maliyang, a communal forest, have been designated for bamboo planting, with work already underway.
He also extended an invitation to the DOST visitors to return in May 2026 for Barangay Dupag’s next Bamboo Festival. This event will showcase the diverse range of bamboo products and demonstrate how bamboo is used for cooking and other household applications. By Jesse Maguiya
