Fidel & Dionglay serve as Oleoresin Experts in Cambodia
October 28, 2011
Two experts from the Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) shared their experiences in oleoresin processing in an international forum held last 23 September in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Dubbed as “Stakeholder Forum on Sustainable and Pro-poor Oleoresin Industry Development in Cambodia”, the event was attended by Ms. Mildred Fidel, Chief of the Technical Services Division and Ms. Mariluz Dionglay, Senior Science Research Specialist of the Material Science Division. Fidel presented the paper titled “Integrating Oleoresin Processing for Community-based Forest Development: A Sharing of Philippine Experience”, while Dionglay discussed the “Characterization and End-uses of Dipterocarpus Oleoresins”.
“The forum was part of the efforts of international organizations and local NGOs to fast track the development of the oleoresin industry in Cambodia,” said Dionglay. She added, “Dipterocarp oleoresin is a natural extract of oil and resin harvested from the bark of dipterocarp trees such as apitong. Used as coatings, adhesives, and as a fixative in perfumes and soaps, it is viewed today as a potential source of livelihood especially of the forest-based communities of Cambodia”.
Aside from the multi-sectoral forum, the technical assistance also involved site and resources assessment in the province of Preah Vihear and visit to Non-Timber Forest Products Exchange Programme (NTFP-EP) office. “During the site visit, we were able to conduct a consultative dialogue with some locals and leaders of non-government organizations. We discussed with them the suitable areas where oleoresin processing plants should be put up”, Fidel narrated.
The activities were organized by the NTFP-EP, Cambodia NTFP Working Group, and the United Nations-funded Creative Industries Support Programme. (Apple Jean C. Martin, 20 October 2011)###
