Bamboo facility opens in Polomolok

A NEWLY inaugurated bamboo treatment facility in Polomolok, South Cotabato will supply treated bamboo poles essential for building sustainable and affordable housing in the area, initially supporting the Polomolok Local Government Unit (LGU) Bamboo Village initiative.

The fourth of its kind in Mindanao and the seventh in the Philippines, it will initially construct 120 houses or 60 duplexes using the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT) proprietary to bamboo construction innovator Base Bahay Foundation Inc. (BASE).

According to BASE General Manager Luis Felipe Lopez, CBFT is a sustainable, durable option that is at least 15 percent more affordable than conventional material.

Homes built with CBFT are designed to be comfortable, affordable and resilient against the local environment's fiercest elements. Tested rigorously against typhoons, earthquakes, fire and pests, they offer thermal comfort, helping families save on electricity and other expenses.

The new bamboo facility will serve as a learning center for those interested in exploring the full value chain of bamboo, and provide sustainable livelihood for at least 50 workers and local farmers in its first year of operations.

BASE signed the memorandum of agreement with the Polomolok LGU in December 2023, and established the facility in partnership with the Mahintana Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering sustainable and resilient communities in South Cotabato.