Bamboo Revolution: How Rizome is Redefining Construction in the Philippines

COURTESY: PNA

Picture this: a bustling city like Manila embracing a sustainable future, and at the heart of this transformation is Rizome, a Cagayan de Oro-based company. Rizome has captured the spotlight with its innovative approach to construction, earning a prestigious recognition from the US Department of State for its pioneering use of engineered bamboo. This isn't just about awards and accolades—it's about crafting a new narrative for sustainable architecture in the Philippines.

Rizome has become a trailblazer, not just within the local scene but internationally, by producing a diverse range of bamboo building products. Their flagship project in the Philippines stands as a testament to what happens when vision meets innovation. With bamboo's rapid growth and carbon-sequestering properties, Rizome is not only building structures but also a legacy of environmental stewardship.

Now, you might wonder, why bamboo? Well, Rizome saw potential where others saw grass. By harnessing innovative technology, they've transformed bamboo into a robust alternative to traditional construction materials. This isn't your grandma's bamboo; it's engineered bamboo, designed to withstand the test of time and elements, all while reducing the carbon footprint of construction.

Transitioning to bamboo doesn't just mean a switch in materials; it signifies a shift in mindset. Reforesting with fast-growing bamboo helps combat deforestation and promotes biodiversity. It's a win-win situation where nature and development coexist harmoniously. Rizome's efforts have pushed the construction sector towards more carbon-neutral practices, paving the way for a sustainable future.

Rizome's innovative approach hasn't gone unnoticed. This year, they bagged the prestigious Secretary of State’s Award for Corporate Excellence (ACE) in the “Climate Resilience” category. Among six firms globally recognized, Rizome stood out for its commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility. This award isn't just a pat on the back; it's a global acknowledgment of their efforts to reshape the construction industry.

The ACE award celebrates American businesses that elevate corporate social responsibility through innovative tools and technologies. Rizome's accolade in "Climate Resilience" highlights their role in forging a path towards sustainability, setting an example not just in the Philippines, but worldwide. It's a testament to their dedication to creating positive impacts through innovation.

The recognition from the State Department is just the beginning for Rizome. With the world watching, they are poised to lead a bamboo revolution in construction. The potential for bamboo as a sustainable building material is enormous, and Rizome is at the forefront of making it a reality. This isn't just about building structures; it's about building a movement towards a more sustainable world.

Through their work, Rizome invites us all to rethink how we approach construction and development. By choosing materials that align with environmental goals, they are setting a new standard for what it means to be a responsible company in the modern age. Their journey is a reminder that innovation, when paired with a commitment to sustainability, can lead to monumental change.

In conclusion, Rizome's pioneering use of engineered bamboo is more than just a business venture; it's a vision for a greener, more sustainable future. With their innovative approach, they've not only redefined construction practices in the Philippines but have also set a benchmark for global sustainability efforts. As they continue to grow and inspire, Rizome proves that with creativity and commitment, we can indeed build a better world—one bamboo structure at a time.

Celebrating Heroes: Misamis Occidental Honors its Teachers and Champions Progress

COURTESY: ASENSO MISOCC

Misamis Occidental recently became a hub of celebration and gratitude as the province honored its teachers, the unsung heroes shaping its future. The 2024 Asenso Awards and Teacher’s Day Celebration was a grand affair, graced by the presence of esteemed leaders including Governor Henry S. Oaminal, 1st District Representative Congressman Jason P. Almonte, Vice-Governor Rowena Gutierrez, and DepEd-MisOcc Schools Division Superintendent Reynaldo Manuel Jr. This event was not just about accolades but a profound acknowledgment of the indispensable role teachers play in the province’s growth and development.

The event kicked off with a lively atmosphere, filled with joy and appreciation. Governor Henry S. Oaminal, in his charismatic manner, emphasized the significance of the day. He passionately spoke about the theme, “Sa Asensong Probinsya, Magtutudlo, Pinangga Ka,” which translates to “In the Province's Progress, Teachers, You Are Cherished.” This theme resonated deeply with everyone present, highlighting the vital role teachers play as the guides of progress.

Governor Oaminal's speech was a heartfelt tribute to teachers, acknowledging them as the strongest pillars of society. He remarked, “Kamo nga mga magtutudlo ang atong gabay sa pag-Asenso kay kamo man ang gigikanan sa kahibalo.” This translates to, “You, the teachers, are our guides in progress because you are the source of knowledge.” His words resonated with the audience, reflecting the collective respect and admiration for the teaching profession.

The celebration was not just about words; it also recognized tangible achievements. Governor Oaminal proudly cited the province's success in the recent Palarong Pampook held in Camiguin. Misamis Occidental's athletes brought home an impressive 52 gold medals, a testament to the dedication and hard work of both students and teachers. Additionally, the Sibugon Integrated School in Lopez Jaena was recognized for ranking as the top 3 performing school in the 2023 National Achievement Test.

These accomplishments were celebrated with great enthusiasm, serving as a reminder of the positive impact teachers have on students and the community. The Governor expressed his heartfelt gratitude, saluting teachers for their unwavering dedication. “The challenges you face today are far greater than before, but despite these, you continue to inspire our youth,” he stated, emphasizing the respect and admiration teachers deserve for their relentless efforts.

Governor Oaminal reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing education within the province. His vision extends beyond mere words, focusing on tangible actions to improve facilities, provide more resources, and create opportunities for the youth. He passionately declared, “Investing in education is investing in our future, and there is no better investment we can make.” This commitment is a beacon of hope for the province, ensuring that education remains a top priority.

The Governor's dedication to education aligns perfectly with the core message of the event's theme. By enhancing teachers' skills and knowledge through sessions on financial literacy, career development, and personal growth, the province is taking concrete steps towards a brighter future. This holistic approach ensures that teachers are not just educators but also empowered individuals capable of driving progress.

As the event drew to a close, Governor Oaminal left the audience with a powerful message. He called upon everyone in Misamis Occidental to embody the province's core values and work together for a brighter and more prosperous future. His words, “Success is not measured by individual accomplishments alone but by how much we uplift and inspire one another,” served as a reminder that collective efforts lead to true progress.

The 2024 Asenso Awards and Teacher’s Day Celebration was more than just an event; it was a testament to the province's commitment to education and progress. By honoring teachers and celebrating achievements, Misamis Occidental is paving the way for a future where education is at the forefront of development. The event concluded with a sense of unity and purpose, inspiring everyone to continue striving for excellence.