The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Abra, led by Governor Eustaquio “Takit” P. Bersamin and Vice Governor Anne A. Bersamin, convened the Cordillera Regional Bamboo Summit 2026 on September 22 at the Social Hall of the Gabaldon Building, Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology, in Bangued, Abra.

Carrying the theme, “Bamboo in the Creative Economy: From Tradition to Innovation,” the summit brought together government, academe, entrepreneurs, researchers, designers, and bamboo advocates to explore new possibilities for one of the Cordillera’s most versatile resources.

Representing Governor Bersamin, Atty. Israel Bonite underscored bamboo’s potential to create sustainable livelihoods and opportunities in crafts, housing, food, and other community-based enterprises, while emphasizing the role of technology and innovation in unlocking its full potential.

From heritage to enterprise, the Cordillera Bamboo Summit 2026 highlighted bamboo as more than a natural resource; it is a pathway to innovation, sustainable livelihoods, and a thriving creative economy.