BY LEANDER C. DOMINGO
QUEZON, Nueva Vizcaya—In celebration of Philippine Bamboo Month, FCF Minerals Corporation’s Community Relations Office – Information, Education and Communication (IEC) in partnership with the Barangay Local Government Unit of Runruno, held a bamboo planting activity and craft competition on September 26, 2025.
Anchored on the theme dubbed “Bamboo Awareness Day: Weaving Sustainability and Culture,” the event was part of the nationwide observance of Philippine Bamboo Month, which aims to promote the importance of bamboo in environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Rodora Damaso and Eunice Fernandez of FCF Mine Environmental Protection and Enhancement Office shared the company’s best practices in the implementation of its environmental programs and the contribution of the company to the Enhanced National Greening Program of the government.
FCF IEC supervisor Rodalyn Arceba said the event was highlighted by the bamboo-made craft competition, where representatives from 11 Sitios (sub-villages) of Runruno showcased their creativity and skills.
The event kicked off with a tree planting activity at Sitio Lintungan, where participants planted 150 bamboo propagules, 50 Narra seedlings, and 50 assorted seedlings. An information campaign was also conducted to intensify public awareness on the importance of bamboo and its contribution to environmental conservation.
The masterpieces were judged based on craftsmanship, creativity and environmental sustainability. The top three winners were: First Place: Sitio Cabinuangan; Second Place: Sitio Dumaliguia; and Third Place: Sitio Centro (Lower).
Additionally, Arcebal said that the event which aimed to promote sustainable development and environmental conservation in the community demonstrated the importance of community engagement and partnership in promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation.
“Bamboo is a highly versatile and sustainable resource that can provide livelihood opportunities for local communities while also contributing to environmental conservation. By promoting bamboo cultivation and sustainable use, the event hoped to inspire community members to adopt environmentally friendly practices,” she said.
The event was attended by community members, local government officials, and representatives from FCF Minerals Corporation. The participants expressed their gratitude to the organizers for providing an opportunity to showcase their creativity and skills.
“By celebrating bamboo awareness, the community comes together to promote a sustainable future and highlight the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations,” said Lorne Harvey, FCF Minerals Corp. general manager for operations.
