Published November 21, 2024 by Campus Information Officer
Cagayan State University Gonzaga welcomed officials from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENREO) for a Benchmarking Activity on November 21, 2024 centered on its Bamboo-Based Agroforestry Research, Development, and Extension Program.
The visiting PENREO delegation included Atty. Leonard M. Beltran, Mr. Melo Bumanglag, Mr. John Macktain Pataueg, Mr. Pablo P. Agustin, Mr. Rodrigo B. Cabildo Jr., Mr. Ronaldo J. Torres, Mr. Reyson Cabunor, Ms. Levy R. Ancheta, and Mr. Marnel D. Pascual.
Dr. Romar Banadero, the Bamboo Income Generating Project (IGP) In-Charge, represented the Campus Executive Officer of CSU-Gonzaga, Dr. Froilan A. Pacris and extended a warm welcome to the guests. Highlighting CSU-Gonzaga's achievements, Dr. Banadero said,
“Our CSU Gonzaga, small as it may seem, is not left behind when it comes to Research Development and Extension. With the leadership of our Campus Executive Officer, Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, and the supportive project leaders and members, we have acquired millions worth of projects from various agencies. This initiative aims to build stable, sustainable, and resilient communities. This benchmarking activity is a significant step in the right direction for the bamboo industry's development locally and globally.”
Atty. Beltran, speaking on behalf of PENREO, expressed the delegation's purpose, stating, “We were mandated to plant bamboo along the entire riverbank of the Cagayan River. While this will not prevent flooding entirely, it can help mitigate its impact.” He also praised CSU-Gonzaga’s bamboo projects, emphasizing their importance in advancing local and regional bamboo initiatives. Inspired by the campus' innovative practices, Atty. Beltran committed in seeking funding for the purchase of bamboo products from CSU-Gonzaga.
During the activity, CSU’s extension office staff shared their expertise and showcased the campus' pioneering bamboo initiatives:
Ms. Myraly Marcos, the Campus Extension Coordinator, presented the Bamboo RDE Programs and the financial and marketing aspects of bamboo production. Mr. Marvin Baloloy, the MABRIC Assistant Manager, discussed bamboo propagation, nursery management, and plantation establishment, and Ms. Mylene Ermitanio, the Campus Research Coordinator, shared best practices and experiences in bamboo propagation.
The visitors toured the campus’ bamboo facilities, including the nursery, Bamboo Village, Bamboo Café, and MABRIC tissue culture laboratories. The hands-on experience allowed them to witness the breadth of CSU-Gonzaga’s contributions to the bamboo industry.
This benchmarking activity highlights CSU-Gonzaga’s leadership in sustainable agroforestry, cementing its role as a vital player in regional and global bamboo industry development.
Photos: MIS Office
Source: Campus Extension Office