DENR Boosts Rattan Gene Bank for Sustainable Supply

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is enhancing its decades-old Rattan Gene Bank in Bukidnon to help secure a sustainable supply of quality planting materials for the country’s growing rattan industry. DENR Secretary Juan Miguel “Mitch” Cuna announced on Friday that this move aims to "secure a sustainable supply of quality planting materials for the country’s rattan industry." The initiative is being undertaken by the DENR-Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (DENR-ERDB). Rattan is a significant contributor to the Philippine economy, widely used in furniture manufacturing and construction materials. In recent years, the demand for rattan has been on an upward trend, with increasing interest from international markets, indicating potential for further growth in the domestic industry. Enhancements to the gene bank will include the conservation of diverse rattan varieties, improvements in breeding techniques, and the development of strains that are resistant to diseases and pests, as well as faster-growing. These efforts are expected to empower rattan farmers with more stable quality and yields, thereby boosting the overall competitiveness of the industry. Moreover, the sustainable utilization of rattan is anticipated to contribute positively to forest resource conservation. The rattan industry serves as a vital source of employment in numerous regions across the Philippines, significantly contributing to the revitalization of local economies. The current enhancement of the gene bank holds the promise of expanding these economic benefits to these communities.