Central Mindanao University and First Fruits Agro-Industrial Corporation (FFAIC) formalized their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for technical assistance on bamboo resource management on October 16, 2024, held at the First Fruits Academy Compound.
The agreement aims to enhance bamboo resource management and utilization of the corporation’s established plantation. The partnership is the response of both parties to the findings of the recently concluded research project funded by DOST-PCAARRD entitled “Technologically Enhanced Assessment and Mapping on Bamboo Resources in Northern Mindanao- TEAM Kawayan,” headed by Dr. Alex S. Olpenda. One of the project’s study sites is the FFAIC’s bamboo plantation.
This collaboration focuses on transforming research into practical strategies for large-scale bamboo cultivation and commercialization. Both institutions are committed to sustainable development and economic growth, aligning their efforts with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and Goal 15: Life on Land. CMU will contribute its scientific expertise and innovative research methods, while FFAIC offers practical industry experience, infrastructure, and market connections to support the scaling of bamboo production.
Engr. Antonio L. Gamboa, President of First Fruits Agro-Industrial Corporation, highlighted the project’s goal of fostering community development and stability. He stated that the initiative targets bamboo cultivation and aims to innovate new products, create jobs, and encourage sustainable practices. “To maximize our impact, we need a strong partnership with CMU. Together, we can share resources, expertise, and vision to turn this initiative into a thriving reality,” Engr. Gamboa remarked.
Furthermore, Dr. Rolito G. Eballe, University President, highlighted that bamboo resource management aligns closely with CMU’s areas of expertise. He noted that while support from DOST-PCAARRD has already been terminated, the university’s commitment to the communities engaged in the project continues. He expressed confidence in CMU’s faculty, whose skills and experience, backed by government training and resources, will benefit the endeavor. Dr. Eballe thanked First Fruits for including their site as one of CMU’s bamboo showcases and reiterated CMU’s commitment as a Higher Education Institution to provide ongoing technical support and expertise.
Meanwhile, Dr. Rodriga Aguinsatan, Interim Director of the Center for Bamboo Research, Innovation, and Extension at CMU, emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in turning academic research into tangible economic benefits. The MOA is expected to help develop a robust bamboo industry in the region, creating business opportunities and supporting the local economy.
The MOA signing was witnessed by key officials, including the College of Forestry and Environmental Science Dean Dr. George R. Puno, Vice President for Resource Generation and Management Office Dr. Ricardo Villar, Dr. Rodriga Aguinsatan, Maria Theresa Gamboa -Sistoso, FFAIC General Manager, Marie Joy Gamboa, FFAIC Board Member and VP for Valencia City Chamber of Commerce & Industry Association Inc, and guests [Iyren Dalipe Neri].