Mahintana Foundation Inc., in partnership with Tibud SKMPC, DOST South Cotabato, and DOST Region XII, recently concluded a 3-day benchmarking visit to various DOST facilities in Los Baรฑos, Laguna, Taguig, and to Base Bahay Foundation, Inc. in Makati. The visit aimed to explore bamboo treatment technologies, sustainable housing, and other science and technology innovations for potential adoption in Region XII.
The team, led by DOST South Cotabato Provincial Director Giselle Eve Siladan and Mahintana Foundation’s Mr. Martiniano L. Magdolot, BOT President, and Ms. Liza D. Hora, Executive Director, along with their partner-cooperative Tibud SKMPC, represented by General Manager Mr. Junbard N. Mahinay, was welcomed by DOST FPRDI, PCAARRD, FNRI, PTRI, and ITDI. These agencies presented technologies related to bamboo propagation, preservation, product development, biochar, and textiles, highlighting bamboo’s potential for various industries, including housing, textiles, and food production.
A key stop was Base Bahay Foundation, where the team explored the Cement Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT) used for affordable and sustainable housing. This partnership offers opportunities for livelihood integration through cooperative member involvement in prefab panel production.
Several key agreements were reached, including the submission of proposals for bamboo industry funding and the adoption of DOST technologies for commercialization. These collaborations are expected to strengthen the bamboo sector and enhance sustainable livelihood opportunities in South Cotabato.
This series of visits signifies Mahintanaโs commitment to fostering innovative solutions for sustainable development in Mindanao.
