In a push to strengthen the bamboo industry and spur economic development, Apayao State College (ASC) hosted the CARASUC Regional Meeting and Planning Session, along with a Geographic Information System (GIS) and Drone Mapping Training, from April 23 to 25.
Leading the initiatives were project leaders: Dr. Victorino Bayed of Kalinga State University, Dr. Brent Gomuad of Mountain Province State University, Dr. Roscinto Lumbres of Benguet State University, Dr. Nero Paredes of University of Abra, Dr. Nelson Latap of Ifugao State University-Main Campus, For. Joel Uhuban of IFSU-Potia Campus and Dr. Maria Christina Z. Manicad of Apayao State College.
Dr. Serafin L. Ngohayon, Program Leader of the Bamboo Program, highlighted the event’s role in driving a sustainable bamboo economy in the region, with specific goals and targets set for future development.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ronald O. Ocampo, ASC Vice President for Academics, Research, Development, and Extension Services, emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative. “With the right knowledge, tools, and collective vision, we can make bamboo not just a plant, but a pillar for climate action and inclusive growth in the Cordilleras,” he said.
On the first day, the team visited the ASC-Payanan Site for a field visit and monitoring activity. The BSU team led a GIS mapping training focused on the systematic collection, processing, and analysis of spatial data critical for bamboo resource planning and management. Additionally, the BSU team conducted a technical session on drone mapping methodologies for bamboo resource assessment.
The following day, a field demonstration was held in Kabugao, where drones were deployed to generate high-resolution orthophotos and 3D spatial models to support resource mapping.
After which, SUCs’ Bamboo Project Team formalized their commitment through a bamboo propagule planting ceremony and a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing at EKB Eco-Tourism Park in Barangay EKB, Kabugao, Apayao.
The MOA signing was attended by Forester Noralyn Piano, representing PENRO-Apayao; Dr. Ngohayon ; Provincial Tourism Officer Rebecca T. Mamba, who attended on behalf of Hon. Elias C. Bulut Jr., Provincial Governor of Apayao; and Hon. Esteban Balanoy, Barangay Captain of EKB, Apayao.
Witnessed by CARASUC delegates and ASC officials, the agreement established a framework for advancing sustainable bamboo development while fostering economic opportunities for local communities.
The participants subsequently traveled to Santa Marcela, Apayao to undertake an evaluation of the established bamboo plantation.
On the last day, they conducted an environmental scanning activity in Marag, Apayao, to identify and assess potential areas for the expansion of bamboo cultivation.
The group extended their profound appreciation to ASC President John N. Cabansag for the warm accomodation and hosting the said activity.
