Base Bahay Foundation, Inc. (BASE), a global leader in bamboo construction, has inaugurated a new bamboo treatment facility located in the Sustainable Eco-tourism and Environment-based Innovations Demo (SEED) Farm in Polomolok, South Cotabato, in partnership with the Mahintana Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering sustainable and resilient communities in South Cotabato. The inauguration ceremony marked the culmination of plans set in motion during the groundbreaking event in December 2023, where a memorandum of agreement was signed for the construction of the treatment facility and model houses.
A key highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between BASE and Polomolok Local Government for the construction of 120 housing units. The project will be executed in phases, starting with the construction of 12 housing units or six duplexes, including two model houses.
The newly inaugurated Polomolok bamboo treatment facility is the fourth of its kind in Mindanao and the seventh in the Philippines. As a hub for bamboo treatment, processing, and production, it will supply treated bamboo poles essential for building sustainable housing, initially supporting the Polomolok Local Government Unit Bamboo Village initiative. Additionally, it will serve as a learning center for those interested in exploring the full value chain of bamboo.
The new facility will provide sustainable livelihoods for at least 50 workers and local farmers in its first year of operations, with projections for annual growth, as it is expected to significantly boost the bamboo industry in the region.
of Science and Technology (Region 12)
Liza Hora, Executive Director of Mahintana Foundation, shared her excitement: “Our mission is to create happier communities, and partnering with BASE on this innovative treatment facility is a huge step forward. This project will not only bring new homes and vital livelihoods to the people of Polomolok but also champion the use of bamboo in modern construction. We are thrilled to be at the forefront of this green revolution.”
The Polomolok LGU’s Bamboo Village initiative, the initial recipient of the bamboo material that the facility will produce, will construct 120 houses, or 60 duplexes, using BASE’s proprietary Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT). The two single detached Cement Bamboo-Frame Model Houses will be constructed this year to showcase this innovative technology which, according to BASE General Manager, Engr. Luis Felipe Lopez is not only a sustainable but durable option that is at least 15% more affordable than conventional material.
Homes built with CBFT promise not just comfort and affordability, but also resilience against the local environment’s fiercest elements. Tested rigorously against typhoons, earthquakes, fire, and pests, they also offer thermal comfort, helping families save on electricity and other expenses.
Says BASE General Manager, Engr. Luis Felipe Lopez: “Bamboo thrives in abundance across Mindanao, and we are ecstatic that right here in Polomolok we have created a value chain that will supply bamboo construction material to current and future builds, provide the community with livelihood, and foster worker skills through technical training. We are excited to begin our housing project with the Polomolok LGU that will utilize the facility’s first products.”
Luis Lopez continues, shedding light on BASE’s dedication to sustainable housing technologies and their relentless pursuit of innovation. By forging partnerships with both local and international entities, BASE is at the forefront of transforming construction practices by leveraging bamboo’s versatility. This commitment has borne fruit as the CBFT has garnered recognition from the National Housing Authority’s Accreditation of Innovative Technologies for Housing (AITECH), marking a milestone in BASE’s journey towards eco-friendly building solutions. To date, BASE has built over 2,300 homes using its proprietary CBFT sheltering over 10,000 individuals in 19 communities across the Philippines and in Nepal, India, and Mexico.