Published September 20, 2025 by Campus Information Office
In celebration of World Bamboo Day and Philippine Bamboo Month, Cagayan State University-Gonzaga, in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Gonzaga and barangay officials, spearheaded a simultaneous bamboo planting activity on September 19 across nine barangays, planting a total of 2,420 bamboo propagules.
The activity highlighted CSU-Gonzaga’s strong advocacy for bamboo development, inspired by the leadership of Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, Jr., Campus Executive Officer.
Deans of the different colleges led the planting efforts in various barangays. Dr. Jayrome Butay of the College of Agriculture, together with barangay officials, Mr. Ronel Morales of Baua, Mr. Douglas Mangoma of Sta. Maria, Hon. Larry Yangat of Cabiraoan, and Mr. Danilo Domingo of Tapel, supervised the planting of 1,020 propagules.
Meanwhile, Dr. Jay Omotoy of the College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy led the planting of 260 seedlings in Barangay Magrafil with barangay official, Mrs. Nenita Valdez; Dr. Shiena Marie Gano of the College of Hospitality Management planted 260 seedlings in Barangay Sta. Clara with barangay official, Mr. Louie Savedra; and Dr. Ohlie Malazzab of the College of Criminal Justice Education planted 260 seedlings in Barangay Pateng with barangay official Mr. Ronaldo Castillo.
Also joining the initiative were Dr. Clyden Charl Alibania of the College of Information and Computing Sciences who planted 260 seedlings in Barangay Isca with barangay official Mr. Erwin Desalla, and Dr. Romar Banadero of the College of Teacher Education who planted 260 seedlings in Barangay Callao. Barangay Cabiraoan National High School also contributed by planting an additional 100 seedlings.
In her message, Campus Extension Coordinator Ms. Myraly Marcos emphasized the deeper meaning of the initiative:
“This bamboo planting is a powerful act of hope and commitment to the future. Just as bamboo grows strong, flexible, and tall over time, may this planting inspire us to nurture patience, resilience, and sustainable growth in our lives and communities. With our partners, stakeholders, students, and all bamboo enthusiasts, we are all reminded that with care and perseverance, we can build a Tangkiran Community.”
The event not only commemorated Bamboo Month but also strengthened the campus’s mission to promote sustainability, resilience, and community empowerment through bamboo as a symbol of growth and hope.
Photos: Ms. Jean S. Torres, Ms. Lorie Fhel Ramento, extension coordinators of the 6 colleges