Benguet State University (BSU) hosted the 1st Regional Convention on Bamboo Innovation, bringing together representatives from government agencies, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), local government units, researchers, and development partners to strengthen collaboration in advancing bamboo as a driver of sustainable development in the Cordillera.

With the theme, “Sinnakit ken Sirmata: Weaving Cordillera Resilience into the CARASUC Bamboo Nexus,” the convention highlights the collective commitment of partner institutions to fostering innovation, environmental sustainability, and stronger regional cooperation through bamboo initiatives.

The program started with a ceremonial bamboo planting at Tebteb, Balili, followed by the ribbon-cutting of the bamboo innovation exhibit led by CAR-SUC presidents, project leaders, and partner officials. BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan welcomed the participants, while Commission on Higher Education Cordillera OIC Regional Director Serafin L. Ngohayon delivered his opening remarks through a recorded video. Messages of support were likewise delivered by Benguet Governor Melchor D. Diclas, represented by David M. Cabuten, and by La Trinidad Mayor Roderick C. Awingan.

A key highlight of the opening was the launch of the Cordillera Administrative Region Bamboo Database (CARBambase) by the BSU Bamboo Innovation and Development Extension Center (BIDEC) Staff John Paul M. Payopay, which aims to strengthen bamboo research, information management, and resource development across the region. Participating state universities, government agencies, and partner institutions also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration under the CARSUC Bamboo Nexus through a ceremonial commitment signing.

The convention will continue with a Kapihan with CAR State Universities and Colleges on the theme, “Bamboo Industry Development for Environment Conservation and Countryside Post-COVID Economic Boom,” followed by a series of keynote lectures featuring experts who will discuss bamboo innovation, research, technology, and industry development to further promote bamboo as a catalyst for environmental conservation and economic growth in the region.