Question & AnswerQ&A (OP EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 879)
The PBIDC is composed of: the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry as Chair; Secretaries of the Departments of Environment and Natural Resources, Agriculture, Education, Science and Technology, and Labor and Employment; Chair of the Executive Committee; the League of Municipalities of the Philippines; two representatives from Non-Governmental Organizations; and one representative each from two private industry associations.
The Executive Committee assists PBIDC in program/project identification and resource generation, directs the preparation of the Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Plan 2010-2020, identifies and prioritizes strategic interventions, research directions, and critical data needs.
The Department of Education is mandated to procure bamboo-made desks and arm chairs equivalent to at least 20% of the annual requirements for public elementary and secondary schools nationwide.
DENR is tasked to use bamboo as planting material for at least 20% of its annual reforestation and rehabilitation areas, especially in areas suitable for bamboo industries or where tree planting is difficult. It also conducts research and develops bamboo production technology for dissemination to farmers.
The DA is responsible for identifying idle and marginalized agricultural lands suitable for bamboo plantations without sacrificing food production areas, and assisting in establishing bamboo nurseries and propagation focusing on bamboo shoots production.
The DOST undertakes research and technology transfer to reduce production costs and increase saleability of bamboo products. It also allocates at least 20% of its MSME assistance funds to bamboo-based enterprises.
DOLE identifies and enrolls special groups and organizations such as persons with disabilities and marginalized sectors that can strategically advance the bamboo industry.
The LMP provides coordinative support in partnership with Local Government Units (LGUs) for the development of the bamboo industry.
An initial funding of Twenty Million Pesos (P20,000,000.00) will be provided by the Department of Budget and Management to the DTI-RODG. Annual budget requirements shall be appropriated to DTI-RODG while cooperating agencies incorporate their own budgets. The PBIDC may also raise funds from other sources for specific projects as authorized by law.