CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — Renowned for its heritage and legacy in the art of wood carving, the local government of Paete in Laguna has partnered with the Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU) to establish a sustainable supply of lumber and ensure the long-term viability of the town’s wood carving industry.
The initiative comes in response to the nationwide log ban, which has severely impacted the availability of quality wood from the Batikuling tree, known for its suitability for artisans.
“We had to plant Batikuling trees at the top of the mountain and this was supervised by the College of Agriculture of Laguna State Polytechnic University to sustain the supply of wood because there is a a log ban and Batikuling which is used by our wood carvers here is included in the list of trees with the log ban,” Paete tourism officer Gary Trencio stated during the Philippine Information Agency’s radio program.
The local government of Paete has provided a two-hectare Batikuling plantation to ensure a steady supply of lumber for the town’s artisans. Batikuling trees grown in this designated plantation are exempted from the national log ban, as they are owned by the local government and cultivated specifically for artisan. This exemption ensures that local wood carvers can legally and sustainably access the necessary materials without violating environmental regulations.
This dedicated plantation serves as a controlled environment for cultivating Batikuling trees, reducing reliance on natural forests and helping the industry adapt to sustainable forestry practices.
In 2011, a nationwide log ban was implemented imposing a moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of timber in natural and residual forests nationwide to address illegal logging and protect the country’s remaining forest resources. While the policy aims to curb deforestation and promote reforestation, it has significantly affected industries dependent on specific wood types, including Paete’s wood carving sector.
Batikuling tree is included in the list of trees covered by the log ban which is highly prized by woodcarvers for its fine grain, durability, and ease of carving. Traditionally used in the creation of religious icons, furniture, and intricate sculptures, Batikuling has become increasingly scarce due to overharvesting and restrictions from the log ban.
Through this partnership, sustainable tree-planting and growing programs will be developed to promote responsible forestry management. The university will also provide technical expertise on reforestation, proper wood selection, and alternative materials that can be utilized in carving while reducing environmental impact.
“We have to strictly monitor the needs and supply of trees, we don’t immediately supply it until there’s not much demand because it might be cut suddenly when you give all the wood and then there’s not much to be used from the LGU’s Batikuli plantation,” the tourism officer added.
The partnership is set to establish pilot reforestation sites and create a monitoring system to track the growth and harvesting of trees. The long-term goal is to create a self-sustaining cycle where wood is replenished as it is used, ensuring a balance between cultural preservation and environmental responsibility. (AM/PIA-4A)
