The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) has recently turned over a PHP20- million Bamboo Rural Enterprise and Development (BREAD) project to the Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) in Matanao town, Davao del Sur province.

In a Facebook post Monday, DA-11 Director Abel James Monteagudo said the BREAD project intends to upscale the bamboo industry by increasing productivity in the region.

This can be done, he said, by promoting, producing, and processing engineered bamboo as a substitute to the diminishing wood industry in the country.

Agudo said the established bamboo processing hub, handed over to the DSCC on May 19, would also serve as a training facility for the youth, farmers, and other interested individuals.

“Through this project, we are harnessing innovative technologies, implementing sustainable practices, and unlocking new avenues for growth and prosperity, Monteagudo said.

He also called on other government agencies to collaborate and amplify their efforts.

Meanwhile, DSSC president Augie Fuentes lauded DA-11 for making the project a reality.

“It unlocks the potential of the bamboo industry in providing sources of livelihood for rural communities in pursuit of economic development, environmental protection, and climate change mitigation,” she said. (PNA)