Department of Agriculture (DA) 10 (Northern Mindanao) is set to collaborate with three provinces to boost the coconut industry while eyeing another province for bamboo expansion.

In a briefing Monday, DA-10 Director Jose Apollo Pacamalan said the initiative will involve the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, and Lanao del Norte.

The project is patterned after the existing coconut processing plant in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental, owned by the First Community Cooperative, which was established with assistance from DA.

Pacamalan said the initiative will be implemented under the Philippine Rural Development Project, which has funding support estimated at PHP500 million to PHP1 billion and will be provided through the Food Terminal Incorporated.

According to DA data, an estimated 2.2 million coconut trees are planted across the region.

Meanwhile, Mount Anggas in Gitagum, Misamis Oriental, is being proposed as a Bamboo Corridor to rehabilitate denuded forest reserve areas while promoting sustainable livelihoods.

“The agency has identified Mount Anggas’ forest reserve as suitable for bamboo propagation and reforestation,” Pacamalan said.

Known as a popular and accessible “mineral mountain,” Mount Anggas features sweeping 360-degree grassland views and distinctive rocky terrain, making it conducive for bamboo cultivation.

Pacamalan said bamboo corridors are typically established to prevent soil erosion, protect riverbanks and watersheds, serve as windbreaks, act as carbon sinks, and provide habitats for wildlife.

Additionally, DA-10 intends to maximize bamboo’s economic potential by processing mature bamboo stalks into construction materials, furniture, and handicrafts.

Pacamalan said the Bamboo Corridor initiative will also serve as a climate change adaptation measure, a flood mitigation strategy, and a sustainable livelihood program for local communities. (PNA)