The Philippines has earned a Guinness World Record (GWR) for the most participants simultaneously planting bamboo, with 2,305 planters taking part in 19 locations across mainland Mindanao and Leyte province on Oct. 18, officials announced Thursday.

The record was confirmed by GWR adjudicator Sonia Ushiriguchi during the National Science and Technology Week celebration, with the Mindanao leg held in this city.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) led the initiative to highlight bamboo’s role in promoting a circular economy, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. called on lawmakers to create policies supporting a circular economy framework, using bamboo as a key example. “We must love our environment as much as we love our children, ensuring they live in a healthy, peaceful, and stable place,” Solidum said.

Bukidnon 1st District Representative Jose Manuel Alba, chair of the House Committee on Sustainability Goals and Climate Change, emphasized the importance of monitoring the growth of the bamboo seedlings planted during the event. Alba advocates for bamboo propagation as a climate change mitigation strategy.

The event showcased bamboo’s potential as an ecological and economic resource, strengthening the Philippines’ commitment to sustainability. (PNA)