April 24, 2025 | DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. together with DOST Undersecretary Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang led the launching of the Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (BTFIH) at Sitio Cabayugan, Brgy. Simbalan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The facility will be managed and operated by the Kapunungan sa mga Maguuma sa Simbalan, Inc. (KAMASI). The facility is equipped to produce up to 40 kilograms of raw bamboo fibers per day, which is the first stage in processing spinnable fiber. Around 100 local farmers will directly benefit from the project.

Dr. Julius Leaño Jr., Director, Philippine Textile Research Institute revealed that is the first Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub in Mindanao. “This is because of the support of your enthusiastic Mayor Hon. Joselito T. Roble”, he said. Dr. Leaño added that “all the raw bamboo fibers produced here will be sold at ₱350 per kilo to our facility in Kabakan, North Cotabato for further processing into spinnable fiber.”

Mayor Joselito T. Roble expressed his gratitude to DOST for choosing Buenavista as project site for many science and technology projects that benefitted the farmers. Mayor Roble said that

“Together, we are building not just infrastructure, but a future where sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth go hand in hand.”

On the other hand, Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante pledged to provide solar power to the facility. Gov Angel appealed to the KAMASI members “Gusto namo mahimong successful inyo business. Request lang nako is disiplina sa mga miyembro, unya mag tinabangay.”

USec Maborrang, on his third visit to Buenvaista, said “I hope to see bamboo textile fiber production to be a successful means of sustainable livelihood.”

Secretary Solidum stressed that science and technology is key to the improvement of the socio-economic condition through the creation of businesses and providing employment. “Ang DOST ang iyong maaasahan sa pag gaan ng inyong buhay at mapalago ang inyong hanapbuhay gamit ang teknolohiya.”

A ribbon-cutting ceremony signified the official launching of the facility. The guests and visitors were able to observe the production process.

The event was attended by DOST Caraga Provincial Directors and Officials, PLGU ADN Officials, Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Members, LGU Department Heads, Brgy. Simbalan officials, KAMASI members, and uniformed personnel.