Benguet Corporation (BC) has committed support to Benguet State University (BSU) in its project “Bamboo Industry Development for Environment Conservation and Countryside Post-COVID Economic Boom (BIDEC)” through the ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on February 24, 2025 at the Office of the President.

The BIDEC project, being implemented by the BSU-College of Forestry (CF), aims to develop economically viable production technologies for raw materials and bamboo-based as a tool for forest conservation and restoration. The project output is to establish innovation model farm for bamboo species.

BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan and BC VP-Resident Manager Valeriano B. Bongalos Jr. led the MOA signing. This was witnessed by BSU VP for Research and Extension Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres and Rex L. Calde Jr. of the BC- Benguet Antamok Gold Operation (BAGO) and other BSU and BC personnel.

In his message, Laruan expressed optimism, emphasizing the commitment of both parties to the agreed-upon programs.

Lumbres also shared that the Benguet Province would be a good model for bamboo cultivation in mining rehabilitation.

“I am hoping that this partnership continues, para makatulong sa community natin. Bilang nasa private sector at bilang nasa academe, we have shared goals of helping the communities surrounding our areas. Thank you so much for accepting the challenge with us. Thank you for accepting advocacies na meron ang Benguet State University,” said Lumbres.

Among its collaborative efforts outlined in the MOA, BSU-CF will spearhead the establishment of an innovation model farm of bamboo species such as “giant bamboo,” “bayog,” and “kawayan-tinik” in the Antamok and Ucab mining areas of Itogon, Benguet. The BC has committed post-establishment maintenance and protection of the said farm.

Lumbres emphasized the project’s potential to rehabilitate degraded mine lands using bamboo, highlighting its resilience to promote soil recovery and environmental restoration.

The Benguet Corporation is the first and oldest mining company committed to sustainable mining practices and environmental conservation.//EBawayan