CARMEN, Cotabato Province (PIA) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) highlighted the contributions of bamboo to the environment as one of the best plants that can rapidly absorb carbon dioxide, leading to balanced ecological systems and sustainable communities.
“What we are doing today is its relevance to the needs of our country, its relevance to the needs of each and every citizen of this country to do something, preserve human life, [and] maintain proper and balanced ecological systems in our countryside because this is the only thing where our lives entirely depend,” said Dr. Teodoro Gatchalian, DOST Undersecretary for Special Concerns, during the recent bamboo planting dubbed “Kawayanihan: A Circular Economy Movement” in Carmen, Cotabato.
The official emphasized the significance of a “tender loving touch” in program implementation, comparing the bamboo planting activity to the DOST’s four pillars.
The four pillars of the DOST involve human protection and well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability.
He then urged everyone to participate in taking good care of the giant bamboo saplings that were planted.
Meanwhile, Engr. Sammy Malawan, regional director of DOST in Region 12, emphasized that the bamboo planting was not only a Guinness World Record entry but also a tool to promote resilient communities.
“It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and regional solidarity achieved through the steadfast collaboration of the DOST and various local stakeholders,” Malawan said.
He also lauded partner agencies for their support in the activity, which will play a vital role in addressing environmental challenges, driving economic growth, and enhancing social well-being.
Malawan believes that the effort will enhance sustainability through bamboo while ensuring the abundance of natural resources for generations to come.
Over 5,000 bamboo planters from 20 locations in Mindanao participated in the activity, dubbed Kawayanihan: A Circular Economy Movement, in an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for simultaneous bamboo planting.
In Region 12, a total of 300 bamboo planters participated in the simultaneous planting activity in Barangay Poblacion, covering three hectares of land.
To reach the target of 1,000 participants and saplings, DOST also plans to plant giant bamboo saplings with additional individuals from partner agencies after the simultaneous planting event. (SJDM – PIA Region 12)
