An enabling policy for a more vibrant Philippine bamboo industry
Abstract
The study assessed the Philippine bamboo policies and determined how its implementation affect the bamboo supply chain. Administrative orders from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) were examined, including the DAO No. 59 s. 1993 that requires a Certificate of Verification prior to harvesting of bamboo poles from private land; the Philippine Bamboo Roadmap; and the 2010 Executive Order 879. Discussions were held with key informants such as bamboo growers, traders, and processors on bamboo planting, harvesting, and transport concerns. Results showed that the Philippine bamboo industry is hampered by a regulatory environment that is unfavorable to stakeholders. Thus, a proposed Department Administrative Order was crafted and subjected to regional consultations for feedback from various stakeholders. Involved during the series of consultations were representatives from regional regulatory agencies, academe, local government units, non-government agencies, officers from the Philippine National Police, people’s organizations, and private individuals. The draft Department Administrative Order consists of nine chapters: 1) bamboo plantation establishment and development; 2) bamboo harvesting and transport; 3) bamboo processing and utilization; 4) bamboo database, 5) monitoring and evaluation; 6) bamboo research, 7) development, training, and extension; 8) incentives; as well as 9) forest charges and fees and administrative provisions. Cross-sectoral support was obtained through a conference resolution that endorsed its immediate adoption.