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DOST-PCAARRD, Industry to support the production of local bamboo production and manufacturing

Margaret Ann Bettina T. Papag and Alexander John D. Borja, DOST-PCAARRD S&T Media Services 12 February 2026

DOST-PCAARRD, First Gen Corporation, and TruForm Asia Packaging Corporation explored the bamboo plantation at Villanueve Farmers Association (VIFA), Nueva Ecija in lieu of possible collaborative technology transfer engement. (Image credit: First Gen Corporation)

With growing interest in sustainable materials, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) capitalizes partnerships with industry players to spur the development of the Philippine bamboo economy.

For the benefit of local bamboo farmers in Nueva Ecija, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) met with representatives of two corporations – First Gen and TruForm Asia Packaging on January 22-23, 2026 to explore initiatives to boost bamboo manufacturing.

Photos of the machinery used for bamboo processing viewed before the coordination meeting on January 22, 2026 at VIFA’s Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Shared Service Facility (SSF) for Bamboo Slats Processing, Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)

The delegation visited the plantation and processing facilities of Villanueve Farmers Association (VIFA) in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija to observe and assess the current situation of bamboo production in the area. They also inspected and assessed the available bamboo processing machines.

TruForm expressed its commitment to assist VIFA and its community by developing a clearer marketing and business strategy to ensure a sustainable operation.

Discussions also centered on proposing a project that will further enhance the capacity of local communities in bamboo manufacturing. First Gen Corp. expressed its interest in collaborating with DOST-PCAARRD and its partners regarding the project. The project will include enhancement, development, and utilization of bamboo production technologies and generating opportunities for smallholder farmers and fisherfolk in First Gen’s host communities.

DOST-PCAARRD, First Gen Corporation, and TruForm Asia Packaging Corporation on the coordination meeting on January 22, 2026 at VIFA’s Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Shared Service Facility (SSF) for Bamboo Slats Processing, Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija. (Image credit: TTPD, DOST-PCAARRD)

Moving forward, a follow-up meeting will be conducted to review the collaborating agencies’ goals and specific details of the project.