CABARROGUIS, Quirino (PIA) - - Department of Trade and Industry Regional Director Leah Pulido Ocampo has expressed appreciation to the provincial government’s programs and projects aimed at boosting the bamboo industry in the province.

Speaking at the launching of the One Town One Product (OTOP) Hub here, Ocampo said the provincial government is always receptive of government projects and is a very supportive partner who always take the lead in the implementation of programs and in crafting local policies and ordinances.

“The six municipalities of the province of Quirino have already passed a Bamboo Industry Development Ordinance, something that is very important for the institutionalization and sustainability of the project,” Ocampo said.

The regional director also visited the Bamboo Ecopark at the Provincial Capitol Grounds (near Governor’s Cottage, CFFQI Training Hall and Reflection Pond) with Forester Estrella A Pasion, provincial natural resources and environment officer, served as her guide. She was joined by some staff of DTI Regional and Provincial Offices, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Quirino Chairman Conchita Uy and officers of Quirino Bamboo Industry Council.

The development of the Bamboo Ecopark is through the efforts of the provincial government and the Provincial Natural Resources and Environment Office.

Director Ocampo also led the bamboo planting activity at the Bamboo Ecopark as a show of support to the province’s bamboo industry.

“There is a high global demand on bamboo products and first to be done is to establish bamboo nurseries for bamboo plantations. Then it is hoped that with the unwavering support of all stakeholders and agencies concerned, the province can soon join the global market to meet the increasing demands of the bamboo industry.

The regional director also reiterated the continuous support of DTI by continuously providing technical assistance thru trainings and capability building activities and processing equipment thru their Shared Service Facility program. (MDCT/TCB/PIA Quirino)