Why Bamboo - Philippine National Report On Bamboo

9/22/2019 Why Bamboo: Philippine National Report on Bamboo
Higit Pa Bumuo ng Blog Mag-sign in
Why Bamboo
anything about bamboo
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2010 FACEBOOK BADGE

Rimmon Alojado Paren | Create Your Badge
Philippine National Report on Bamboo
FACEBOOK BADGE
note: copied from various bamboo researchers Rimmon Alojado Paren | Create Your Badge
I. INTRODUCTION
FACEBOOK BADGE
The Philippine archipelago, composed of 7,100 islands, is located between
latitudes 5oN and 21oN and longitudes 116oE and 127oE. It is bordered by the
Luzon strait to the north the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Celebes Sea to the
south, the Sulu and South China Seas to the west (FAO, 1995 and World
Resources Institute, 1994).
It has a total land area of 30 million ha, 53 percent (15.88 m. ha) of which is
forest land (Philippine Forestry Statistics 1996). Land is classified as alienable
anythingaboutbamboo.blogspot.com/2010/11/philippine-national-report-on-bamboo.html 1/22
and disposable, unclassified and forest lands. Forest lands are categorized into Rimmon Alojado Paren
reservation, timberland, national parks, military and naval reservation, civil

reservation and fishponds.
There are approximately 83 million Filipinos (Philippine Statistical Yearbook,

2005). Two thirds of the population lives in rural areas. The total labor force in
1993 was 26.8 million (13.0 million in urban areas, and 13.8 million in rural
areas) with 10 percent unemployed (de Los Angeles and Ygrubay, 1992).
Almost all the lowland areas suitable for intensive cultivation are occupied (ADB,
1994). Landless people are forced to migrate to the steep uplands where they
convert forests to farms through slash and burn cultivation and the most notable
result is forest degradation. In 1994, it was estimated that deforestation occurs
at a rate of 100,000 ha per year.
Because of the rather sad plight of the environmental and socio-economic

conditions of the people within the forest lands, utilization of resources must be
sustainably reached. Among the resources found within these forest lands are Create Your Badge
bamboo. Bamboo has proven to be vital resources in terms of its contribution to
the national economy and ecological stability of the Philippines.
Bamboo stands out among woody plants because it possesses unique qualities
and offers a wide array of uses. The bamboo culms has long been tapped as an
inexpensive source of housing materials, furniture, handicraft, banana props,
fish pens and other innumerable products. The young shoots of certain species
are gathered for food. The rhizomes in its roots help prevent soil erosion and
control floods. Through the years, the uses of bamboo have largely diversified
and benefited many industries. Because of its large fibers, it is also a good
material for pulp and paper. Its short rotation of about 4-6 years is a distinct
advantage over fast growing tree species because of quick turn over in terms of
investments.
In spite of its myriad of traditional uses, the main reasons for the classification of
bamboo as a "minor forest product" or "secondary timber" have been
enumerated by Bello and Espiloy in 1995. These include the following: 1.)
abundance of wood from natural forests in the past particularly the lesser known
or commercially less accepted species for the reproduction of reconstituted
panel products; and 2.) constraints in cultivating bamboo which may be
monocarpic, fire tender and easily bruised.
In the Philippines, bamboo has diverse, functional and traditional uses. It

underlies so much of Philippine culture that it is part of many ceremonies,
traditions and beliefs. Philippine culture is also replete with myths and tales
about bamboo. For example, the first Filipino man ("lalaki") and woman (babae")
came from a piece of bamboo according to a Visayan myth.
Various instruments be it wind, string or percussion are made out of bamboo

while split and unsplit bamboo are used in Philippine folkdances. Examples of
these are "tinikling", "singkil", and "subli".
Bamboo is also part of Philippine folk games. The "palo sebo," a greased
bamboo pole with a small bag of prize money or toys tied at the end is a game
always played during fiesta time. "Luksong kawayan" or high jump also uses FOLLOWERS
bamboo poles or sticks as hurdles.
Followers (2)
Bamboo has likewise taken a very important role as a traditional weapon during
times of war. During the Spanish era, bamboo mats were rolled to appear like
cannons and were mounted on carts. On Sept. 2, 1896, a Filipino band BLOG ARCHIVE
► 2012 (4)
composed of bamboo musical instruments was used to fool their enemies by ► 2011 (12)
attacking the Spanish garrison. ▼ 2010 (17)
▼ November (17)
In ancient times, furniture was usually made of bamboo. These include "papag"
Why Invest in Bamboo?
(bed), "bangko" (bench), and "aparador" (cabinet). On the other hand, basketry
is probably the oldest bamboo handicraft in the Philippines. Bamboo baskets Specie Conservation Project
are produced for all sorts of uses. on
Bamboo(source:BAMBO...
Bamboo is also used in many ways for food and food preparation. Bamboo BAKIT KAWAYAN?
containers are used to steam rice, the staple food of the Filipinos. Bamboo Main Non Wood Forest
shoots are either cooked as food or pickled and is considered as a delicacy in Product included in DENR
many places. However, this aspect of bamboo utilization has not yet been AO N...
developed as an industry. Bamboo kitchen utensils are carved from bamboo WHY BAMBOO? ... HERE'S
while split bamboo is woven and laminated to make plates. In rural areas, WHY ...
"banggerahan or paminggalan" still serve as cupboards where dishes are dried Municipal Ordinance
and kept. Bamboo skewers are commonly used to roast pigs while thinner sticks CREATING THE
are used for barbeques such as pork, chicken, innards, hotdogs, bananas and PIGCAWAYAN BAMBOO...
sweet potatoes. PROPOSAL FOR
DEVELOPMENT AND
PROTECTION OF SAPA
In agriculture, bamboo is used as props for banana and vegetables, baskets for
BU...
packaging fruits, fish and vegetables, agricultural implements and construction
of animal drawn carts for transporting farm products. Bamboo is also used as A Draft Copy of Executive
Order for LGU
dibble sticks in planting. In early agriculture, bamboo was used for fetching Pigcawayan...
water from rivers, deep wells or surface wells.
PIGCAWAYAN BAMBOO
INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
Bamboo is also used extensively as an indigenous material for soil and water Constitu...
conservation technologies. Check dams use woven bamboo strips between the
NGO and PO Accreditation
pegs while bush or stones are placed against the dam’s upper side. In Form(for those who want
protecting river/stream banks, bamboo can be planted to stabilize water while t...
holding the soil in place and reducing water flow.
Bamboo: The Vegetable Steel
In the 1570s, when the Spaniards arrived in the country, the typical Filipino
house or "bahay kubo" was built with a framework of bamboo poles and walls of Policies Affecting Bamboo
Industry
split cane woven like a mat.
Philippine National Report on
I. BAMBOO RESOURCES Bamboo
Why Bamboo, why the heck?
A. Bamboo Resources Bamboo in the Philippines:
Community Resource
In the past, bamboo production area would only refer to bamboos naturally
Bamboo Facts
growing in the forest and in "natural stands" in private lands. However, today,
bamboo plantations have become dependable sources of raw materials for Bamboo Economics
some segments of the bamboo industry.
The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), through the ABOUT ME
UNDP-FAO Bamboo Research and Development Project established 57 ha of
bamboo pilot plantations in six different sites of the country with 8 to 11 ha per
site. Eight commercial species are being tried in the pilot plantations. These are
the following: Bambusa blumeana (kauayan tinik); Bambusa vulgaris (kiling);
Bambusa sp. (bayog); Bambusa sp. (laak); Dendrocalamus asper (giant Rimmon Alojado Paren
bamboo); Gigantochloa levis (bolo); Gigantochloa atter (kayali); and
never ending story, upbeat and
Schizostachyum lumampao (buho). The plantations are located in Rosario, La
always improving...t is believed that
Union (Region 1); Pampanga Agricultural College (PAC), Magalang, Pampanga
if bamboo were planted on a mass
(Region 3); Dumarao, Capiz (Region 6), Minglanilla, Cebu (Region 7), basis it could completely reverse
Malaybalay, Bukidnon (Region 10); and Bislig, Surigao del Sur (CARAGA). the effects of global warming in just
In Davao Province in Mindanao, thousands of hectares of lands were planted to 5-6 years, and provide a renewable
laak (Bambusa sp. 2). These were meant for the demand for banana props.
source of food, building material,
Jose Pastor of Isla Verde, Batangas established a 50-ha kauayan-tinik and erosion prevention.
(Bambusa blumeana) plantation. The bamboos were being used by the family in View my complete profile
producing furnitures.
In Pililla, Rizal, Domingo Alfonso has a 20-ha kauayan-tinik (Bambusa
blumeana) plantation. The family is producing high-quality furniture which they
supply to department stores, i.e. Rustans, and SM stores and also for export.
Based on the information from various sources the total available bamboo
resources in terms of area covered and annual estimated available bamboo
poles for harvesting and utilization were analyzed according to the nature of
origin (Table 2).
The computation showed that there is at least a total of about 39,211 to 52,711
ha of production area for erect bamboos with an expected production of
approximately 29 to 52 million harvestable poles per year. Of these volumes,
about 65 to 68 percent will come from forestlands, 22 to 25 percent from natural
stands, 5 to 5.5 percent from private plantations and 3 to 4 percent from
government plantations. This data is rather high compared to the figures
presented in Table 3 where only 626,889 pieces of bamboo were gathered from
forestlands in 1996.Rojo in 1996 prepared a list of Philippine bamboos
taxonomically recognized and/or published by various authors.
In that same year, Rojo reported that there are now 62 species of bamboos
growing in the Philippines (Table 5). However, it seems that there are only 21
species of bamboos endemic to the Philippines. Six of these are also native to
other countries. Of the endemics, those not found elsewhere but in the
Philippines, seven belong to the genus Schizostachybum of which five are
climbing and are erect. The rest belong to other genera, of which three are erect
and five are climbing. Thus, most Philippines bamboos that are native to the
country are mostly climbing (10 species) and only five species are erect ones.
The predominance of climbing bamboos over the erect ones of both endemic
and native species has an implication on the supply of culms available for
commercial use. At present, the climbing bamboos although abundant in terms
of the number of culms are used for kaing or basket making and native fences
which are priced lower than the products manufactured from erect bamboos.
Of the native and erect bamboos, only four species are of economic and
commercial importance (Rojo 1996). These species are: Dendrocalamus
(Bambusa species) merrillianus, Shizostachyum lima, S. lumampao and
(Bambusa spec. 2) philippinensis. Nevertheless, domestication of introduced
bamboos has long been done and is used commercially. The commercially
useful bamboos are shown in Table 6. It should be noted that of the twelve
species listed only 2 or 3 are native and/or endemic species.
II. PRODUCTION AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
A. Bamboo
1. Propagation techniques
Bamboos can be propagated either by sexual (reproductive) or asexual
(vegetative) means. Sexual propagation is by means of seeds. However, this is
not popular in the country due to the irregularity and rarity of flowering of
common bamboo species. Nevertheless, some species like buho
(Schizostachyum lumampao) flower gregariously. According to studies made on
Kayauan tinik (Bambusa blumeana), even if seeds are available, these are
mostly infertile and viability is low. Vegetative or asexual propagation makes use
of different parts of bamboo plants as propagation material. There are various
methods of vegetative propagation described by various authors, ERDB-
DENR/FAO/UNDP (1994) and PCCARD (1991). These are as follows:
a. Clump division
The safest method is by clump division. This is normally used for bamboo
species which are difficult to propagate. This method is also preferred when
there is a need for rapid growth. However, this method is laborious and affects
the productive capacity of the clump.
b. Basal Culm Division or Offset

This method makes use of the rhizomes and the portion of the culms. It is
commonly used in the monopodial or non-clump forming bamboos. It can be
applied to some sympodial bamboo species with loose clumps such as "Anos"
(S. lima) and "Buho" (S. Lumampao) because these are difficult to propagate
either by culm or branch cutting.
c. Culm Cutting
This uses segments of culm (cuttings) bearing buds or fascicles of branches.
Cuttings are extensively used to propagate bamboo of the genera Bambusa,
Dendrocalamus and Gigantochloa.
d. Branch Cutting
This method is an alternative method of propagating rhizomatous branch

producing bamboos like "Bayog" (D.asper), "Kauayan tinik" ( B. blumeana),
kauayan kiling, (B. vulgaris) and other similar varieties.
e. Branch Marcot Culm cutting
This method is similar to culm cutting method. However, it induces first the
rooting of branches by marcotage, before the culm is cut into one-node pieces
for planting.
f. Tissue culture
This involves the development of new plants from plant tissues in artificial media
under aseptic conditions. Dr. Alfinetta Zamora of the Institute of Plant Breeding
at UPLB has developed satisfactory protocols for machiku (D. latiflorus),
calcutta bamboo (D. strictus) and "Buho" (S. lumampao).
g. Airponics
It is a method of accelerating the growth of plants in oxygen-rich environment

without soil (Maravilla, 1996 ). The plant root zone is suspended in a growing
chamber and intermittently pulse misted with a nutrient solution. Propagation of
bamboo through this method is still very new. The facility of airponics plant
propagation system (APPS) is located in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo, Central
Philippines.
Given these various propagation methods, the most common method practiced
in the country is culm cutting with some procedural variations found practical
and effective by individual propagators. This is applied to the most common
commercial species such as "Bayog", "Kauayan tinik"," kauayan kiling", "Bolo",
“Laak", and "Kayali." For giant bamboo and "Bayog," branch cutting and branch
marcotting have been employed, respectively ( Gigare et al. 1992 and Alfonso,
D. 1990). Offset method is found to be effective in propagating buho where culm
cutting is not so successful. Tissue culture derived plants of Dendrocalamus
strictus and Schizostchyum lumampao have been produced and seedlings have
been trial planted and are now vigorously growing in the field (Zamora and
Gruezo, 1992). Maravilla (1996) reported that branch cutting of giant bamboo
has been successfully propagated through APPS.
2. PLANTATION DEVELOPMENT
a. Site Requirements
The growth and development of bamboo depends on water, sunlight, nutrients
and other growth requirements. However, these growth requirements vary from
one species to another. Nevertheless, these important requirements as
forwarded by some authors (PCARRD 1992, Malvas 1995, Hoang et al. 1992
and MPFD 1990) hold true for Philippine bamboo.
b. Site Preparation
The Bamboo Farming Manual published by the ERDB-DENR/UNDP/FAO
(1994), PCARRD (1989), Pinol et al.(1991), Lapis et al. (1987), Hoang (1991),
and Malab et al. (1996) describe the various steps in the preparation of planting
site for bamboo:
i. Sketching or Mapping and Delineation of Area
It is important to sketch the main features of the planting site to assess the
accessibility of the area to water sources and determine the location, size and
form of the plantation
ii. Staking
Four corners of the plantation should be marked with long poles. If the
plantation is too large, it should be divided into compartments measuring 100m
x 100m.
iii. Field Layout

The recommended spacing for most commercial bamboo species and other
large clump and culm bamboo is from 7m x 7m to 10m x 10m. For medium size
clump bamboos like laak and boho the spacing is 4m x 5m. For riverbank and
embankment stabilization planting quincunx system is suggested at a closer
spacing of 5m x 5m.
iv. Clearing
Weeds and unwanted vegetation is removed from the area. Depending on
vegetation site, complete clearing or strip clearing may be done. For riverbank
or hillside planting, spot clearing is recommended for least soil disturbance.
v. Planting Hole Preparation

The planting hole which is prepared in advance should be wide enough to
accommodate the propagules either rooted or directly planted. The suggested
dimension of the planting hole is 50 cm (20 in.) wide and 40 cm (16 in.) deep.
c. Transporting/Hardening of Planting Stock

Hardening of the plants prior to transporting for outplanting which is about 4 to 6
months after potting is recommended. Loading and unloading of potted
propagules is carefully done to avoid damage especially to the roots and new
shoots.
d. Planting
Planting of bamboo in plantation can be done either by direct planting of cuttings
or by outplanting the nursery-raised propagules.
e. Plantation maintenance and silvicultural treatments
i. Fertilization
Although bamboo can grow in harsh conditions, it is sometimes necessary to
apply fertilizer to provide the plants the nutrients necessary for optimum growth,
especially in very poor and marginal areas. Fertilizer application which is about
200 to 300 gm of complete fertilizer is done at planting time and every 3 to 4
months thereafter. Organic fertilizer such as cow dung and chicken manure is
also recommended.
ii. Watering
When rainfall is irregular and plants show signs of wilting during the first few
months after planting, watering is deemed essential.
iii. Mulching
To reduce moisture loss from the soil and from the plant, mulching is
recommended. This entails covering the hills and the plant with grasses and
other organic materials.
iv. Replacement of Mortality
Replacement of plants that have died should be done as soon as possible
because the growth of the replanted plants may be suppressed by the older
plants.
v. Weeding and Brushing

Regular weeding and brushing is done during the first two years of plantation
establishment to eliminate competition for light, water and nutrients from other
vegetation.
vi. Thinning
Thinning is done three years after planting to remove damaged, defective and
dead culms. More space is provided for the growth of new shoots and for better
facilitation of management activities.
vii. Pruning
Pruning of lower branches of the culms is recommended to provide access to
the culms during fertilization and harvesting.
viii. Protection
Establishment of firebreaks along the boundaries and compartment of
plantations especially during dry months is recommended to prevent fires.
Planting of fast growing fire resistant species is also recommended.
Fencing the plantation perimeters should be done if grazing animals like cattle,
goats, and carabao are prevalent in the area.
Rodents are common pests which damage shoots and young culms. Termites
also destroy roots and lower portions of the culm. Other bamboo pests
commonly observed are cottony cushion mealy bug, bamboo scale, locust, leaf
roller, tussick, moth and aphids. Bamboo diseases include tar spot, leafspot, leaf
rust, culm blight, and other physiological diseases. Commercial rodenticides,
insecticide and fungicide can be applied to control these pests and diseases.
However, none of these have been reported to be in widespread proportion to
pose a serious problem.
f. Bamboo Harvesting Systems/Methods

Harvesting is of great importance because it is the culmination of all production
activities and efforts.
There are two known methods or systems of harvesting as practiced in the

country:
g. Selective cutting
This is the most common and traditional practice where only the selected culms
or poles of some specific age are harvested.
ii. Clear cut or blanket method

All poles/culms regardless of age are cut leaving only the very young culms and
shoots. However, this system is practiced in very limited areas and for specific
purpose. This method is known to be applied in laak species (Bambusa sp. 2)
which are used as banana props.
Factors to consider in harvesting bamboo

Culm age
Generally, most of the commercial bamboo species are harvested between 3-5
years old.
Cutting Time/Season
Dry season is the best time to harvest bamboo when the culms are lowest in
terms of starch content level making it less susceptible to powder post beetle
attack. No shoot emergence also occurs during this time, hence shoot damage
is evaded.
Cutting Height
Cutting of poles/culms should be done as close as possible to the ground
preferably after the first node for maximum pole utilization and growing space
management.
Distribution
Culms to be harvested should be uniformly distributed within the clump
periphery. This allows even spacing of the culms to be left and eventually of the
new shoots that will emerge.
Harvesting Treatment for Old Unmanaged Bamboo Clumps
Due to inappropriate harvesting practices and absence of proper management,

most of the existing bamboo stands have become dense and congested.
However, these bamboo stands can be reinvigorated and improved by hilling-up
of the soil occupied by the clumps and through fertilizer application.
Thinning/cleaning can also improve productivity. There are two known methods
of thinning old clumps - horse shoe and cross pattern methods.
IV. PROCESSING AND UTILIZATION
1. Major Products and Uses
Bamboo
Generally, bamboo products are classified as primary (poles, shoots and
stumps), secondary or semi-processed (sawali, splits, sticks, boards) and
finished products (handicraft, furniture and ready to cook/eat shoots). Primary
and secondary products are inputs for various industries including housing,
fishing, and agriculture and manufacturing while finished products are directly
channeled to end-users in both domestic and export markets for direct

consumption (OIDCI, 1997).
Primary Products
a. Poles - The most common shape of the full culm is usually tapered from the
butt to the tip.
b. Shoots - This is the emerging portion of the rhizome that becomes the
culm/pole, a number of bamboo shoots are edible.
c. Stump - This is the portion of the bamboo plant/clump left after harvesting.
Secondary Products
a. Sawali
Bamboo mats are made by plaiting splits. The matting is used for interior walls
partitions, ceilings doors and windows and for exterior walls. Mats are produced
in a variety of shapes and patterns.
b. Splits
The term split is used for any shape smaller than a quarter of the culm.
Generally, splits are not used as building components but are woven into mats
or made into lashing.
c. Boards
Bamboo boards are commonly used for flooring walls and even roofing. A board
consists of culm that has been cut and unfolded until it is almost flat.
Finished Products
a. Furniture
Furniture made of bamboo include sala set, dining tables, corner and center
tables, cabinets, beds, lounging chairs, sofa beds and rocking chairs.
b. Handicraft
These are non-traditional products made of indigenous raw materials like wood,
rattan, bamboo, buri, abaca and handwomen, fibers. Products of the handicraft
industry include trays, brooches, pen holders, wall decor, boxes, decorative
baskets, vases, fans, and fancy items.
c. Processed foods
Bamboo shoots throughout Southeast Asia are eaten fresh, pickled or diced.
Processed bamboo shoots from various producing countries are being exported
to more than 20 countries including the Philippines.
2. The role of bamboo in the construction industry, fishing, agriculture and
pulp/paper industry
Bamboo is a popular construction material for low cost houses among the
Filipinos especially those living in the countryside. Its popularity is due to several
reasons which include 1) abundance of material, 2) simple tools may be used in
building a house, 3) existence of traditional skills and methods necessary for
construction, and 4) the bamboo house which can easily be built is well
ventilated, sturdy and earthquake resistant.
In spite of these reasons, there are difficulties faced by the users in processing
and mechanically fabricating bamboos due to its physical characteristics. These
are the variation in dimensions, crookedness of the culms, and non-uniformity of
internodes and unevenness of taper.
Bamboo is developed into various product lines for the construction industry
(OIDCI 1997) and this include packaged "Bahay kubo", sawali sheets, bamboo
roof (shinges), bamboo spokes and bamboo splits. There are likewise new
products such as panel boards, plyboo, sawali board, plyboard, and laminated
board which are potential substitutes for plywood and lawanit.
Table below shows the uses, product lines, and survey areas according to
various sources.
Table 1. Bamboo survey areas and construction use/product lines.
SURVEY AREA PERCENT USAGE OF USE/PRODUCT LINE

POPULATION
Camarines Sur (Lopez, 95% of rural population house posts, doors, stairs, bridges,
1997) windows, cooking area, sink, gates, fences,
scaffolding animal pens, out houses,
storage areas
Central Visayas (Alino, 48% of interviews home dwellings

1989)
1997 OIDCI survey packaged "bahay kubo" "sawali sheets

,bamboo roof (shingles), bamboo spokes
,bamboo splits
panel boards, plyboo, sawali board,
plyboard, laminated board
There are also novel products manufactured from bamboo which may have an
important role in the construction industry in the very near future (OIDCI, 1997).
Table 2. New bamboo manufactured products.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Bamboo parquet composite material made of wood veneers and bamboo slots
block
Bamboo particle combination of ipil-ipil wood and bamboo particles glued, and
board pressed to form a board
Resin-bonded urea formaldehyde is used to glue bamboo mats

bamboo mat
Corrugated bamboo woven, glued and hot pressed bamboo slivers in the fabricated
sheet (CBS) corrugated mold
Bamboo plyboard pre-painted panel board made basically out of waste plastics,
rice hull ash and bamboo
Bicycle Chassis Branches of Bayog variety at about 1.25” diameter

(Calfee Design, California)
In Northern Philippines, mussel cultivators and fishpen operators are two major
bamboo users for this industry. One hundred thirty-five cultivators have an
annual culm requirement of 13,500 bayog poles and 8 fishpen operators need
25,500 kawayan tinik (B. alumeana) culms per year. Bamboos used in the
fishing industry are not treated with preservatives. Prolonged immersion in water
has a preservative effect on the culms. The other uses of bamboo in the fishing
industry include rafts, traps/coral, fishpen, boat outriggers, fish shelters, stakes
and fishing rods.
Bamboo poles are used as props to support fruit-bearing bananas. The species
used as props are: "kawayan tinik" (B. alumeana), "bolo" (G. levis), "Laak"
(B.gp. 2), and "Kayali" (G. atter). Drying and preservation techniques applied on
bamboo for construction are also done for bamboos used as banana props.
Bamboo is an important raw material for pulp and paper manufacture. Bamboo
was used by the Bataan Pulp and Paper Mills Inc. (BPPMI) in the late 1960s for
the production of quality printing and writing paper. However, after a number of
years of operation the company shifted to logging residues from Mindanao. In
1993, a small paper factory in Calamba, Laguna utilized bamboo to produce
pulp which was processed into incense paper for export to Taiwan.
3. State of bamboo handicrafts in the country

Majority of the country’s regions are engaged in bamboo handicraft production.
Because bamboo is readily available, it is crafted into various household
items/commercial articles for both local and foreign markets. Common items
include trays, lampshades, fancy baskets, brooches, napkin rings, pen holder,
jewelry boxes, flower vases.
In Northern Philippines, the basket making industry is distinctly separated from

handicrafts because a lot of people are specializing in kaing (basket) making.
Three towns in Pangasinan exclusively produce these two product lines. The
annual bamboo requirement of the 611 basket makers is about 97,760 culms.
The total value of Philippine handicraft exports was held relatively stable from
1989 through 1992 (Table 12). The US was the primary recipient of these
products accounting for nearly 50 percent of total exports in 1992.
Table 3. Philippine Handicraft Exports.
EXPORTS (IN US $ THOUSANDS)
1989 1990 1991 1992
Bags and Baskets 63691 65133 n.a. 78058

(Mixed material)
Articles of 57963 52612 n.a. 43021

Basketwork or
wickerwork
TOTAL 121,654 117,745 121,079
Source: Philippine Trade Statistics as cited by OIDCI 1997.
4. Standard of Classification for Bamboo

In marketing bamboo raw materials, there seemed to be inadequate or lack of
common classification standards (Rivera et.al. 1996). Bamboo was purchased
based on length, diameter size, straightness of pole and age/maturity.
IV. MARKETS AND SOCIO-ECONOMICS

A. Bamboo
Bamboo export mainly consisted of basket/basketware (92.47%) and furniture

(7.41%). For basket/basketware, 28.08 million pieces valued at US$39.93
million were exported to various countries with USA as the biggest buyer of
volume valued at US$ 21.46 million. Other buyers include Japan, United
Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain and others (1996 Philippine Forestry Statistics).
Bamboo was also reported by the 1996 Philippine Forestry Statistics to have
been exported with a volume of 19,000 kg. valued at US$43,000 FOB compared
to 1995 exports of 9,000 kg. valued at US$22,000 FOB.
On the other hand, there were reports that 293 seats of bamboo valued at
US$12,188 FOB and US$13950 CIF were imported from Thailand and Vietnam
in 1996 (1996 PFS). Likewise the same source reported that a total of 98,065
kg. of bamboo valued at US$57,575 FOB and US$57484 CIF were imported
mostly from Indonesia, Hong Kong, Thailand and Vietnam.
Participants in the Bamboo Sector
The bamboo sector involves various participants ranging from licensees,

gatherers, manufacturers, factory workers, traders and consumers. They are not
mutually exclusive such that a market participant may be involved in various
activities at varying extent.
Determination of the total number of market-participants may not be possible
due to various reasons (OIDCI, 1997). First is the proliferation of small
unregistered firms and informal market transactions. Another reason is that
some firms also handle non-bamboo materials and products which may be
listed under non-bamboo firms. Lastly, the dynamism of the market prompts
participants to shift to other products and/or economic activities.
Pabuayon and Espanto in 1997 as cited by the 1997 OIDCI document report
that there are more than 70,000 participants including licensees, processors,
exporters, manufacturers and workers (Table 14). The same table shows that
there are 171 participants including bamboo - based firms but excludes workers
involved in gathering, manufacturing and trading.
Characteristics of Market Participants
Based on a survey of participants in the Cordilleras and Western Visayas, all of

the respondents have gone to school with majority of the workers having
attended the secondary and vocational levels. Workers include both males and
females with most of them depending on bamboo activities as a primary source
of income. However, annual income from bamboo except for traders and
manufacturers is low for gatherers with an average of P5, 000.00. The same is
experienced by raw material producers and furniture workers with an income of
P5, 000.00 – 10,000.00 per year. Raw material traders and handicraft workers
earned an average of P15, 000.00 per annum.
Product flow through various market levels
A survey done by Navera in 1996, shows that there are two sources of bamboo.
These are from natural stands and plantations. The survey revealed that half of
the 73 bamboo enterprises interviewed obtained their bamboo poles from
natural stands while the rest obtained their poles from local traders. Sixty
percent (60%) of the firms sell their finished products directly to households and
the rest to exporters and other manufacturers.
On the other hand, Rivera et. al. 1996 described the various market channels
involved for raw materials and selected finished products such as bamboo
poles, mats, sala set, mirror frames etc. in Iloilo, Negros Occidental and Abra
(Figures 1, 2, 3). The various services rendered at a given channel were also
listed together with the value addition incurred at each respective channel.
Prices by Product Type and Quality

At a given market level, bamboo prices differ by species and quality, the latter
differentiated by diameter size and length. In a study made by Maligalig and
Saguin (1990), it was reported that in some cases, poles are traded assorted or
unclassified while others simply classify bamboo poles as big or small.
In a 1996 survey by Rivera, et. al. It was revealed that higher grades
commanded better prices and lower grades, lower prices. The prices in pesos
(P) per pole at the producers and traders levels are shown in Table 5:
Table 5. Price of bamboo raw materials at the producers and

traders level.
BAMBOO TYPE PRODUCER (P) TRADER (P)
Class A (10 - 15ft) 25.00 45.00

Class B (6 - 9ft ) 14.00 31.67
Class C (4 - 5 ft) 6.00 11.33
Poser (1000抯) 100.00 120.00
Split (6 ft, 50s) 28.12 46.62
Split (8 ft, 50抯) 47.50 67.50
Table 6. Profit rates (before taxes) of Bamboo traders and manufacturers,

Philippines.
OPERATOR PROFIT (PESOS) a/ % OF TOTAL COST
. Per truckload or container van c/
Quirino 163,849 329

Pampanga 3,528 3
Quezon 74,501 161
Palawan 21,004 46
Leyte 53,346 32
Samar (2,604) (2)
Agusan 1,944 2
Davao 37,025 7
Manufacturers (1986-87) Per month operation
Furniture d/ 416,556 49
Handicraft e/ 31,340 32
Value Addition
As the materials move along the market chain to a higher level, prices generally
increase due to value addition associated with services performed and profit
associated with services performed and profit or margins of market
intermediaries.
In survey of Rivera et. al. (1996) the respective shares of the market participants
both in cost and profit involved in the production and sale of some selected
bamboo finished products are shown below. It can be observed that greater
value occurs at the manufacturing stage due to inputs and profit margin.
Table 7. Cost and profit shares of market participants in the production and sale
of selected bamboo finished products.
MARK SOFA PALAY STORAGE SINGLE

PARTICIPANTS BED
P % P % P %
Gatherer 20 8 - - - -
Producer Cost 48 19 25 6 10 7
Producer Profit 30 12 100 25 20 1
Manufacturer Cost 105 42 270 68 30 3
Manufacturer Profit 47 19 5 1 90 2
Product Value 250 100 400 100 150 0
6
0
1
0
0
POLICY AND LEGISLATION

Bamboos found in forest lands are considered and lumped with other non-wood
(minor) forest products. Therefore, collection and harvesting is governed by
DENR Policies and Regulations as specified for in the Revised Forestry
Administrative Order No. 11 dated September 14, 1970 wherein cutting permits
should be secured prior to collection and harvesting. The Annual Allowable Cut
(AAC) of a permittee is guided by the following formula:
AAC = Ap x Ar x 4
Where:
Ap = area covered by permit (ha.)
Ar = number of clump per hectare
4 = number of culms harvested per chump
It is assumed that a clump could yield 4 culms per year.
Bamboos collected from forest lands are also subject to forest charges pursuant
to DAO 40 dated November 8, 1994. The forest charges which are based on RA
7181, species and FOB market price of forest products are shown below:
Table 8. Bamboo Forest Charges.
COMMON NAME SPECIES RATE (P/PIECE)
Kawayan kiling/tinik 6.00

Bayog 3.00
Boho/Bolo 2.00
Other species of erect bamboo 1.50
All climbing bamboo .50
Bamboos harvested from Industrial Tree Plantations and private lands covered
by titles are exempted from payment of forest charges.
Bamboo has also been included in the list of species recommended for the
Forestation Program of the DENR. It has also been considered for DENR
watershed rehabilitation and soil erosion control projects. It is also used by the
DENR in the community based forest management program.
Policy controlling or regulating interval and/or external trade of bamboo
Aside from the cutting permit and forest charges to be paid for bamboo collected
from public lands, DENR monitors movement and transport of bamboo by
requiring a Certificate on Non-Timber Forest Product Origin (CNFPO). This is
specified in DENR Administrative Order 59 dated September 30, 1993.
Bamboo harvested from industrial tree plantations and private or titled lands are
exempted provided they are certified by the DENR Community Environment and
Natural Resources Office. However, some irregularities may be experienced
since even those coming from public lands may still be certified coming from
private lands. This may be the reason why DENR Statistics on harvest and
forest charges remain underestimated, thus losses in terms of government
revenue and unsustainable harvesting practices.
As far as import/export regulations are concerned, bamboo poles are prohibited
for exportation except for scientific or testing purposes and need export
clearance from the government as provided for by the amended rules and
regulations implementing Presidential Decree 930.
For exporters of manufactured bamboo products, general procedures required
for exportation such as securing export clearance, standardization and
inspection, payment of inspection fees, submission and registration of export
declaration must be complied with. Importation of bamboo poles for commercial
purposes is not allowed except for non-commercial purposes such as pearl farm
fencing. Nevertheless, these policies should be reviewed to encourage bamboo
plantation development and consequently, support the development of the
bamboo based industries.
Shipping documents such as the Certificate of Minor Forest Products (CMFOs)
are required from traders.
Kilmer 1994 reported that the cutters and traders have developed a system of
reducing the local charges to an affordable level. While the DENR is reportedly
trying to clean up the forest charge collection system, the effective collection of
full forest charges would have the effect of increasing the market price of small
diameter poles and further weakening the position of Filipino manufacturers in
international markets.
The evasion of forest charges also has the effect of undermining the DENR抯
ability to control and even monitor the amount of cutting being done. The data
on the volume of harvest is determined on the basis of the same documents
which serve as the basis for the collection of forest charges thus;
underestimation of cut is highly possible.
Policies on biological protection and genetic conservation
As far as biological protection and genetic conservation of bamboo and rattan

are concerned various government policies and DENR administrative orders
have been formulated and implemented (Lapis, 1998). These are as follows:
1. RA 7586 (1992)
An act providing for the establishment and management of Natural Integrated
Protected Areas System (NIPAS).
2. DAO 25 (1992)
The National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) implementing rules

and regulations focusing on the twin objectives of biodiversity conservation and
sustainable development.
3. PD 1586 (1978)
Establishment of Environmental Impact Statement System
4. DAO 21 (1992)
Revision of rules and regulation on EIS System
5. DAO 96-37 (1996)
Revisions of DAO 21 (1992) to further strengthen the implementation of the

Environmental Impact Statement System.
6. EO 247 (1995)
Prescribing guidelines and establishing a regulatory framework for the

prospecting of biological and genetic resources, their by-products and
derivations for scientific and commercial purposes.
7. DAO 96-20 (1996)
Implementing rules and regulations on the prospecting of biological and genetic

resources.
Relevant Studies Under Consideration
The forest charges presently obtained from the permittees may not reflect the
true value of the commodity produced, in this case, bamboo and rattan. These
products come from forest or public lands and are charged according to
diameter size, species and length. However, the other inputs to production have
not been considered particularly the use of the land and the total economic
value of the commodity.
A study is being prepared to review and assess the present forest charges
pegged on bamboo with consideration of the various valuation methods to arrive
at the true value of bamboo.
INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY
Various government and non-government agencies/entities, state colleges,

universities, and international agencies have in one way or the other undertaken
research and development activities to encourage and promote the bamboo and
rattan sectors.
Academe
Research activities on bamboo and rattan are being undertaken by state

colleges and universities in coordination with government and private sectors.
These include the:
1. University of the Philippines at Los Baños (UPLB)
2. Benguet State University (BSU)
3. Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU)
4. Nueva Viscaya State Institute of Technology (NVSIT)
5. Tarlac College of Agriculture (TCA)
6. Palawan National Agricultural College (PNAC)
7. Panay State Polytechnic College (PSPC)
8. Mindanao State University (MSU)
9. Visayas State College of Agriculture (VISCA).
Government
AGENCY
College Industry and Technology Role in Bamboo mandated to encourage and

Center (CITC) promote the establishment of micro cottage, and
small enterprises and improve product quality and
productivity towards global competitiveness for
generating employment and livelihood opportunities
Ecosystems Research and Both under DENR and support the R & D activities
Development Bureau (ERDB) of the forestry sector in the technical socio-
Ecosystems Research and economic and marketing aspects of raw materials
Development Sector (ERDS)
Forest Products Research and Under Department of Science and Technology

Development Institute (FPRDI) (DOST) and undertakes R & D relating to technical
socio-economics and marketing aspects of forest
products particularly on post-harvest and utilization.
Technology Application and Under DOST and is responsible for technology

Promotions Institute (TAPI) commercialization and promotion
Philippine Council for Agriculture, Under DOST and responsible for R & D evaluation
Forestry and Natural Resources monitoring providing financial, support and
and Development (PCARRD) promoting linkages among R & D institutions and
individuals
Department of Trade and Industry A major agency which has a number of bureaus and
(DTI) attached agencies which directly affect the bamboo
industry. It coordinates, promotes, and facilitates the
country trade industry and investment activities.
National Statistical Coordinating Recognize and strengthen Philippine Statistical

Board (NSCB) System. Its objective is to achieve the development
of an orderly statistical system capable of providing
timely, accurate, sufficient and useful data to suit
planning, programming and evaluation needs of all
sectors of the Philippine economy
Non-Government Organization
NAME ROLE
Philippine Bamboo Society Supports the activities of the Philippine Bambusetum in

Baguio Benguet Chapter Baguio. There are only 11 officers and members
dominated by women with only one male member.
Membership comes from government offices, NGOs,
academe and private entities.
Iloilo Furniture Manufacturers Non-stock, non-profit organization which focuses on

Association (IFMA) Bamboo Development Project. It aims to complement
existing wood furniture production optimize use of widely
materials and skilled work force and penetrate new
markets.
Iloilo Manufacturers Cooperative organized by IFMA for undertaking profit

Multipurpose Cooperative making initiatives. It focuses on penetrating the export
(IMMPC) market through complementation and specialization
among members
Aklan Furniture Makers

Association
Bamboo Development
Cooperative in Davao
Philippine Business for Responsible for implementing marketing programs that

Social Progress link livelihood activities for rural communities for equitable
markets. One of the major components is the transfer of

technologies including marketing and business
technologies to the clients.
Center of International Trade Organizes trade fairs where Filipino exporters may
Expositions and Mission, Inc. participate. The center consists of product officers who
(CITEM) assist foreign buyers in their inquiries and maintains a
permanent exhibit of Philippines export products
including bamboo based products.
Industry Associations
NAME OF AGENCY FUNCTIONS/SERVICES PROVIDED
Chamber of Furniture Industries Group of furniture exporters whose mission is to

of the Philippines promote the continued growth of the Philippine
furniture industry. It also provides direction to its
development efforts. Serves as a forum for industry
related issues
Philippine Chamber of Non-stock, non-profit organization which aims to

Handicraft Industries contribute to the growth of the Philippine handicraft
industry by promoting handicrafts in both local and
international markets
Philippine Chamber of An umbrella private sector representative organization

Commerce and Industries with 139 sectoral trade associations which provides
trade opportunities and buyer-seller matching
services for its members and foreign buyers. It also
mounts overseas missions and hosts incoming
missions. Some bamboo and rattan manufacturer-
exporters are members of the chamber
Confederation of Filipino This is an industry association composed of private

Exporters Foundation sector exporters. It is a non-stock, non-profit service
foundation which seeks to facilitate exporters’ access
to trade information and technical services towards
expanding and diversifying markets. It also aims at
organizing Philippine exporters into a persuasive
collective advocate for policy and administrative
reforms needed to transform the country into a
progressive nation. It provides trade opportunities and
buyers-sellers matching services and regular
publications. It also has regional networks.
European Chamber of The only European bilateral chamber represented in

Commerce of the Philippines the Philippine and represents the interest of all
European countries as well as those Filipino
members. ECCP provides a full range of services
including personalized buyer-seller matching and
circulation of trade opportunities through the regular
publication
Cebu Furniture Industries

Foundation
Chamber of Cottage Industries

of the Philippines
Christmas Decor Producers and

Exporters Association of the
Philippines
Private Sector
NEPA-Q-MART Industries Gives out bamboo seedlings free of charge. However,

Bamboo Production Pilot Project on the 4th year five seedlings for every seedlings will
headed by Atty. Nereo J. be given back to NEPA-Q-MART to again be
Paculdo distributed to other participants
Kawayan Farm c/o Engr. D.J. Sells ready to plant bamboo propagules and offers a
Alfonso training package on bamboo propagation
Mr. M. Caasi of Davao Provides technical assistance on bamboo growing.

He is known as “Bamboo king" who started organizing
farmers cooperative since 1989
Issues and Concerns, Recommended Solutions and R & D Strategies for

the Bamboo Sectors
ISSUE/CONCERN RECOMMENDED SOLUTIONS R & D STRATEGIES
BAMBOO delineation of areas for bamboo

Production development species-site matching
Lack of concerted planned formulation of guidelines in maintenance of Bambuseta
effort for bamboo plantation reforestation projects
development strengthened IEC campaign
premature harvesting as an adequate technology transfer R & D on physiological aspects vis a
offshoot of increased demand mechanisms, provision of vis market research
support services (credit
technical assistance markets)
provision of incentives,
physiological properties-end
product matching
Marketing
limited social acceptance of increased IEC researches on the perception, attitude
bamboo and extension strategies and other
IEC approaches
inadequate support services establishment of strategically market research with some linear
located buying stations programming applications
accessible to all actors in the
bamboo industry
unorganized marketing system organization of industry comprehensive market research

associations/societies
market linkages/ networking
through GO抯, NGO抯,
private/industry sectors
unfavorable market diversification of uses of market research

developments e.g. decline in bamboo species species/product matching
demand for banana propping

materials
no standards for grading and development of grading and R & D on grading and classification
classification of raw materials classification standards for raw standards
materials
Utilization commercialization of new

products limited to traditional bamboo products
uses development of state-of-the-art R & D on product development
technologies designs
conduct of seminars,
workshops, trainings sponsored
by government and/or industry
associations
Policy conduct of policy studies to

annual allowable cut (AAC) determine the AAC based on
species, growth, yield, clump
development in relation to
climatic and edaphic factors
Information Systems establishment of a centralized information systems analysis

inadequate information system repository of bamboo database
on production, management,
marketing, utilization
Posted by Rimmon Alojado Paren at 4:31 PM
2 comments:
Maria Victoria Bayang April 22, 2013 at 12:23 AM

Thanks for your posting. It's very helpful especially for us farmers who would like
know more about bamboo selling. Do you know anyone who can buy bamboo
poles with the best price? How much, if any? Thank you.
Reply
Replies
Dr Aliu Shadira September 29, 2018 at 5:06 AM

$$$ GENUINE LOAN WITH 3% INTEREST RATE APPLY NOW $$$.
Do you need finance to start up your own business or expand your
business, Do you need funds to pay off your debt? We give out loan
to interested individuals and company's who are seeking loan with
good faith. Are you seriously in need of an urgent loan contact us.
Email: shadiraaliuloancompany1@gmail.com
LOAN APPLICATION DETAILS.

First Name:
Last Name:
Date Of Birth:
Address:
Sex:
Phone No:
City:
Zip Code:
State:
Country:
Nationality:
Occupation:
Monthly Income:
Loan Amount:
Loan Duration:
Purpose of the loan:
$$$ GENUINE LOAN WITH 3% INTEREST RATE APPLY NOW $$$.

Do you need finance to start up your own business or expand your
business, Do you need funds to pay off your debt? We give out loan
to interested individuals and company's who are seeking loan with
good faith. Are you seriously in need of an urgent loan contact us.
LOAN APPLICATION DETAILS.

First Name:
Last Name:
Date Of Birth:
Address:
Sex:
Phone No:
City:
Zip Code:
State:
Country:
Nationality:
Occupation:
Monthly Income:
Loan Amount:
Loan Duration:
Purpose of the loan:
Reply
Enter your comment...
Comment as: asdfdoe12@gm Sign out
Publish Preview Notify me
Newer Post Home Older Post
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)
Picture Window theme. Powered by Blogger.

Why Bamboo - Philippine National Report On Bamboo

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Оригинальное название

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Why Bamboo - Philippine National Report On Bamboo

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

9/22/2019 Why Bamboo: Philippine National Report on Bamboo

Higit Pa Bumuo ng Blog Mag-sign in

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2010 FACEBOOK BADGE

reservation, timberland, national parks, military and naval reservation, civil

There are approximately 83 million Filipinos (Philippine Statistical Yearbook,

Because of the rather sad plight of the environmental and socio-economic

In the Philippines, bamboo has diverse, functional and traditional uses. It

Various instruments be it wind, string or percussion are made out of bamboo

II. PRODUCTION AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

b. Basal Culm Division or Offset

This method is an alternative method of propagating rhizomatous branch

It is a method of accelerating the growth of plants in oxygen-rich environment

iii. Field Layout

v. Planting Hole Preparation

c. Transporting/Hardening of Planting Stock

e. Plantation maintenance and silvicultural treatments

v. Weeding and Brushing

f. Bamboo Harvesting Systems/Methods

There are two known methods or systems of harvesting as practiced in the

ii. Clear cut or blanket method

Factors to consider in harvesting bamboo

Harvesting Treatment for Old Unmanaged Bamboo Clumps

Due to inappropriate harvesting practices and absence of proper management,

IV. PROCESSING AND UTILIZATION

1. Major Products and Uses

channeled to end-users in both domestic and export markets for direct

SURVEY AREA PERCENT USAGE OF USE/PRODUCT LINE

Central Visayas (Alino, 48% of interviews home dwellings

1997 OIDCI survey packaged "bahay kubo" "sawali sheets

Resin-bonded urea formaldehyde is used to glue bamboo mats

Bicycle Chassis Branches of Bayog variety at about 1.25” diameter

3. State of bamboo handicrafts in the country

In Northern Philippines, the basket making industry is distinctly separated from

Table 3. Philippine Handicraft Exports.

EXPORTS (IN US $ THOUSANDS)

1989 1990 1991 1992

Bags and Baskets 63691 65133 n.a. 78058

Articles of 57963 52612 n.a. 43021

TOTAL 121,654 117,745 121,079

Source: Philippine Trade Statistics as cited by OIDCI 1997.

4. Standard of Classification for Bamboo

IV. MARKETS AND SOCIO-ECONOMICS

Bamboo export mainly consisted of basket/basketware (92.47%) and furniture

Participants in the Bamboo Sector

The bamboo sector involves various participants ranging from licensees,

Characteristics of Market Participants

Based on a survey of participants in the Cordilleras and Western Visayas, all of

Product flow through various market levels

Prices by Product Type and Quality

Table 5. Price of bamboo raw materials at the producers and

BAMBOO TYPE PRODUCER (P) TRADER (P)

Class A (10 - 15ft) 25.00 45.00

Table 6. Profit rates (before taxes) of Bamboo traders and manufacturers,

OPERATOR PROFIT (PESOS) a/ % OF TOTAL COST

. Per truckload or container van c/

Quirino 163,849 329

Manufacturers (1986-87) Per month operation

MARK SOFA PALAY STORAGE SINGLE

POLICY AND LEGISLATION

Table 8. Bamboo Forest Charges.

COMMON NAME SPECIES RATE (P/PIECE)

Kawayan kiling/tinik 6.00

Policy controlling or regulating interval and/or external trade of bamboo