QUEZON CITY — The House Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), chaired by CIBAC Representative Bro. Eddie Villanueva, opened a four-day bamboo exhibit on Monday, showcasing the plant’s potential as an eco-friendly and economically viable resource.

The exhibit featured a variety of bamboo-based products, including guitars, ukuleles, chairs, tables, and other furniture crafted by local artisans from Bukidnon, Iligan City, and other parts of the country. The event aimed to highlight bamboo’s role in fostering livelihood opportunities, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.

Among those in attendance were lawmakers, government officials, and notable figures from the private sector, including Carolina “Kaye” Jimenez, known as the country’s “Bamboo Queen” for her advocacy of the bamboo industry, and acclaimed singer Paolo Santos, who added vibrance to the gathering.

“Bamboo symbolizes our nation’s ability to thrive while caring for the environment. It is a blessing from God that provides us with opportunities to create a healthier environment and a prosperous economy,” said Rep. Villanueva in his statement.

The lawmaker also emphasized key legislative efforts spearheaded by the SDG Committee, such as House Bill No. 9144, or the Bamboo for a Sustainable Built Environment Act, which encourages the use of bamboo in construction projects. Another measure, House Bill No. 10263 or the Bamboo Products Procurement Act, mandates government agencies to allocate at least 25% of their furniture and fixture budgets to bamboo-based items.

“Through these legislative measures, we aim to strengthen the bamboo industry, not only as an ecological solution but also as a powerful driver of economic growth,” Rep. Villanueva added.

The CIBAC representative called on the public to view the exhibit as a testament to Filipino creativity and ingenuity and a rallying point for supporting sustainable practices aligned with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“As stewards of God’s creation, it is our responsibility to care for and nurture the natural resources He has entrusted to us. Bamboo is one of these blessings, and we must use it wisely for the benefit of future generations,” Villanueva concluded, referencing Genesis 2:15 of the Bible in his call for environmental stewardship.

In his remarks, SDG Committee Vice Chairperson Rep. Joeman Alba underscored bamboo’s potential to address two of the Philippines’ pressing issues: poverty and climate change. He highlighted its versatility as a sustainable resource capable of generating livelihood opportunities while contributing to climate resilience and environmental conservation efforts.

The event marked a collaborative push toward advancing sustainability goals and positioning bamboo as a renewable and valuable resource for a greener, more resilient future for the Philippines.

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