On September 6, 2024, the Sustainable Eco-tourism and Environment-based Innovations Demo (SEED) Farm of Mahintana, funded by Dole Philippines Inc., together with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Polomolok, in partnership with BASE Bahay Foundation Inc., with the support of DOST XII, proudly inaugurated the regionโs first Bamboo Treatment Facility at Purok 5 Dam, Brgy. Landan, Polomolok, South Cotabato.
The inauguration included the blessing of the facility, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between LGU Polomolok and BASE Bahay Foundation, Inc. for its housing program. Attendees were also introduced to the nine-step bamboo treatment process through a walkthrough. Mahintanaโs SEED Farm initiative is dedicated to enhancing environment and agriculture-based products and services, while reinvesting gains into environmental programs. This initiative also focuses on constructing resilient homes for indigenous and marginalized communities, particularly benefiting Informal Settler Families (ISFs). This venture goes beyond infrastructure development, highlighting Mahintana’s commitment to sustainable living and community empowerment through innovation.
The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Polomolok Municipal Mayor Hon. Bernie D. Palencia; Municipal Administrator Ret. Gen. Gerardo Barrientos; Municipal Vice Mayor Hon. Melchor Jutar; General Manager of BASE Bahay Foundation Engr. Luis Felipe Lopez; Dole Philippines Inc. Senior Manager of Corporate Affairs Ms. Leamor Banaga; DOST XII Provincial Director Jiselle O. Siladan; Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor National Project Manager Ms. Elsie A. Aradanas; SCBDIC representative Mr. Tyron Jann Villanueva; DA XII representative Mr. Michael Nikko Mosqueda; DOLE XII Assistant Regional Director Fatima Quarayce L. Batnga; DILG XII representative Mr. Hayd-Ali Suwaid; TESDA XII represented by PD Atty. Rabmor Thomas T. Bartolome; the Polomolok 19th Sangguniang Bayan; Polomolok Association of Barangay Council; Bamboo Industry Development Council of Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, Sarangani and South Cotabato; United Architect of the Philippines SOCSARGEN chapter; and various government agencies and CSOs, including TIBUD, Polo SN, CAMPCO, Landan Coop, DARBC, Community Lawil di Afus, and Crossing Palkan Bamboo Association.
