MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon (PIA) — Twenty-three Bamboo Farm Business School (FBS) participants presented their business plans and showcased their newfound skills on Friday, September 20, 2024. The event aimed to equip aspiring bamboo entrepreneurs with the needed knowledge and tools to succeed in the industry.
They showcased diverse products, including modern “Bahay kubo” (traditional Filipino houses), bamboo boards, slats, baskets, decorative items, and souvenirs.
A participant emphasized the importance of meticulous cost recording, a lesson he recently learned. He now carefully tracks every expense involved in producing “bahay kubo,” a practice he previously overlooked.
“This newfound focus on detail allows me to calculate profit margins and make informed business decisions accurately,” he explained.
He also cited the importance of quality in their products. They have adopted new techniques, such as treating the bamboo to eliminate “bokbok” (insect infestation) and extend the shelf life of their products.
This commitment to quality ensures that their creations are both aesthetically pleasing and durable, making them more appealing to the market.
The Bamboo Farm Business School, funded by Bukidnon 1st District Congressman Joeman Alba in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Manolo Fortich, proved successful, with participants presenting well-prepared business plans and high-quality products.
Panelists, including Congressman Alba’s Bamboo Engineer Consultant Jonathan Cabrera, Councilor Raquel Bayacag (Committee Chair on Agriculture), Councilor Elzevir Dagunlay (Committee Chair on Farmers), and ATI-RTC 10 FBS focal person Efren C. Macario, expressed their admiration for the participants’ progress.
This initiative empowers individuals and supports the sustainable development of Bukidnon’s bamboo industry. Through a series of training, the Bamboo Farm Business School fosters economic growth while promoting renewable, eco-friendly resources. (ECM/ATI-10/PIA-10 Bukidnon)
