The ever-reliable bamboo, with all the benefits it boasts, truly needs no introduction insofar as all its glory is concerned. Its environmental positives and the myriad of efficient methods it can be grown make for a useful ‘green gold ’from top to bottom.
A bamboo garden in Antipolo City is doing above and beyond to spread the word and make the fastest-growing plant more a go-to than just a viable alternative.
A bamboo haven located in Sitio Tanza 2 in Antipolo, Rizal does not only cultivate and harvest bamboo - they also conduct biannual training seminars and workshops that immerse participants in its planting procedures.
This year’s “Learn and Earn from Bamboo Experts” edition by Carolina Bamboo Garden features an elaborate tour at a newly erected Bamboo Museum launched in October 2023, and an immersive visit at the construction of a bamboo treatment center and production area - all important x’s and o’s about bamboo cultivation.
Like previous iterations, it will talk about the significance of bamboo in catering to food, shelter, and clothing concerns, its sustainable growing mechanisms, and its aesthetic appeal that goes beyond bamboo straws and bamboo speakers.
A biannual initiative that has been going on for 23 consistent years, the Antipolo-situated garden has been serious about promoting bamboo and imparting value-adding wisdom about the plant’s propagation and multi-functional properties.
The 2023 edition zeroed in on the bamboo’s longevity and holistic practicality. A walk-around workshop and an immersive lecture were given by Engineer Jovito Elec from the Department of Science and Technology - Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FDRPI), and forest scientist and Taxonomy expert, Dr. Aida Lapis.
“Ang bamboo, four years lang matured na agad ‘yon. Yung ci-nut mo, tutubuan ulit ng shoots, so hindi ka na mauubusan ng bamboo. Marami kang mapapakinabangan at magiging products, at marami kang magiging pera,” said garden owner Carolina ‘Kay’ Jimenez during the 2023 “Learn and Earn” workshop.
The 24th “Learn and Earn from Bamboo Experts” learning seminar will be held on March 26, 2024 at the sweet green haven of Carolina Bamboo Garden.
