CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) launched KAWAYANIHAN: A Circular Economy Movement, marking a milestone for the Philippine bamboo industry. This initiative aims to break the Guinness World Record for the “Most People Planting Bamboo Simultaneously” and to promote bamboo as a sustainable alternative for products like clothing and furniture.
Held across 18 sites in Mindanao and one in Leyte on October 18, the event united 40 institutions and 3,990 participants to surpass India’s record of under 2,000 simultaneous bamboo planters.
Beyond the world record attempt, Kawayanihan drives the circular economy forward, strengthens climate resilience, and supports a sustainable future. Bamboo planting is a long-term investment, providing livelihoods, essential resources, and environmental benefits for future generations.
“What we are doing now preludes the National Science and Technology Week in Cagayan de Oro on November 27-30, where we will announce the Science and Technology Framework for Circular Economy. This framework will boost the green and circular economy in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao, which has vast lands and significant livelihood potential through technology,” said DOST Secretary Renato Solidum.
He emphasized that Kawayanihan goes beyond planting. It includes real-time monitoring of bamboo growth via the Bamboo Resource Inventory System (BRIS), developed by Central Mindanao University Bamboo Niche Research and Development Center.
Representative Rufus B. Rodriguez of 2nd District Cagayan de Oro voiced his support, underscoring bamboo’s economic and environmental value.
“We will ensure bamboo propagation nationwide; it has a strong market now. We are planning legislation to streamline planting and harvesting with government support, making it a viable economic activity for livelihoods,” said Rodriguez.
DOST plans to collaborate with stakeholders to create a unified bamboo industry strategy aligned with the Philippine Bamboo Industry Roadmap, focusing on infrastructure, value-added processes, logistics, and marketing to secure the industry’s future.
DOST describes Kawayanihan as a movement grounded in collaboration, community spirit (bayanihan), and a shared vision for lasting environmental and economic impact. This transformative movement invites the public to enhance lives and ecological health. (JAKA/PIA-10)
