A shortage in raw materials of Gmelina arborea for the furniture industry is currently being experienced in Region 2 due to the wide supply and demand gap.
The implementation of Executive Order (EO) No. 23, also known as Logging Moratorium, has further diminished the existing supply of Gmelina as it restricts the cutting of trees in the primary and secondary forests. This prompted the industry to find other ways to source raw materials other than from forests.
To address this challenge, a three-year project titled, “S&T Community-based Farm (STCBF) project on Gmelina” was funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
Known as a fast-growing Industrial Tree Plantation Species (ITPS), Gmelina can serve as a sole source of raw materials for the furniture industry in Cagayan Valley.
STCBF aims to increase the income of Gmelina upland farmers in Isabela by increasing productivity and contributing to environmental services through adoption of Science and Technology interventions in Industrial Tree Farming (ITF).
DOST-PCAARRD continues to demonstrate its commitment to push for continuous economic growth through S&T interventions, which include site-specific nutrient management, use of genetically superior planting materials, use of Indigenous Microorganisms (IMOs), mycorrhiza technology, intercropping, and application of silvicultural treatments.
Implementation of these interventions would increase the quality and quantity of trees to be harvested, increase the income of farmers in Gmelina Model Farms of Isabela, and contribute to environmental services in the Region.