Bamboo textile technology boosts rural livelihoods in Agusan Norte
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The members of the Kapunungan sa mga Mag-uuma sa Simbalan Inc. (KAMASI) are now directly benefiting from Mindanao’s first Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (BTFIH) in Barangay Simbalan through a secured market arrangement with the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI).
The facility uses Bamboo Textile Technology developed by DOST-PTRI, which enables the extraction and processing of bamboo into textile fibers for yarns, woven materials, and other products.
“The technology focuses on the extraction and processing of textile fiber from bamboo using a more environmentally friendly and efficient process,” said Engr. Rojen Galicio of DOST-PTRI. The initiative is part of the Bamboo Textile PH program, aligned with the national government’s efforts to revive the Philippine textile industry through sustainable, locally sourced materials and community-based innovation hubs.
DOST-PTRI selected Barangay Simbalan in Buenavista because of its abundant bamboo resources, strong community interest in bamboo-based livelihood, and support from the local government and partner organizations. “What we also saw was the strong interest of the community in bamboo-based livelihood, and the solid support of the local government and community partners,” Galicio said, emphasizing that these factors are essential to ensuring the long-term viability of the project.
The establishment of the facility supports the national agenda of promoting green industries, strengthening rural value chains, and creating inclusive economic opportunities, particularly in resource-rich regions such as Caraga.
Before installation, DOST-PTRI conducted site assessments, coordinated with stakeholders, and evaluated the community’s readiness to operate and maintain the machinery.
With a secured market link through DOST-PTRI, members of KAMASI are assured of demand for their bamboo supply, providing a stable source of income while encouraging sustainable bamboo cultivation in the area. The project has generated jobs for community members engaged in fiber extraction and processing, while farmers benefit from the added value of bamboo that previously had limited commercial use.
Agusan del Norte Governor Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante pledged the provincial government’s continuing support for project. She also called on members of KAMASI to sustain the project\s gains through unity and hard work. “Success will come from your cooperation and perseverance in strengthening your cooperative and livelihood,” she said.
Buenavista Mayor Joselito T. Roble likewise underscored the significance of the project, saying the hub could have a meaningful impact on the lives of KAMASI members as direct beneficiaries of the technology. He expressed deep gratitude to DOST for its unwavering support to farmers, from the provision of new technologies to the rollout of transformative projects like the bamboo innovation hub.
DOST-PTRI continues to monitor production output, operational efficiency, and socio-economic gains, including the number of families benefiting and the additional income generated for bamboo growers.
KAMASI president Charlito Dutosme said the initiative has changed how the community views bamboo and opened new economic possibilities. “Bamboo Textile Technology from DOST-PTRI has greatly helped, especially in our livelihood,” he said. “Before, we never imagined bamboo could be transformed into fabric and other textile products.”
Community members have undergone training on machine operation and fiber processing, equipping them with technical skills to manage the facility and participate in the growing bamboo textile value chain.
The Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub in Agusan del Norte, a pioneering initiative in Mindanao, marks a major milestone in the Philippine textile sector as it strengthens the pivotal role of innovation and science in uplifting rural economies. As the Philippines advances its sustainable manufacturing and circular economy goals, DOST-PTRI said the Simbalan facility demonstrates how local resources and grassroots innovation can support national development, positioning Philippine bamboo textiles as a potential contributor to both domestic industries and global markets. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)