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DOST-FPRDI seeks to protect native cinnamons

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Engr. Revilleza demonstrates basic woodworking machine operation.
DOST-FPRDI’s Ms. Florena B. Samiano (left) assists a team of bark harvesters in Boljoon, Cebu working on the project ‘Technology Adoption on Proper Harvesting and Utilization of Philippine Cinnamon.

According to Ms. Samiano, “Since the project started three years ago, the team has studied how the bark of two types of local cinnamon (Mindanao cinnamon and kalingag) grows back after being stripped and made recommendations based on this, looked into the chemical content of the bark oils, and assessed the local market for cinnamon products.”

She adds, "We have tried to find high-yielding yet sustainable ways of harvesting local cinnamon bark, as stripping the bark the wrong way can harm or kill the tree. Our aim is to help forest communities earn more while being able to better protect our very own cinnamons.”

The cinnamon tree is known for its sweet-smelling bark and leaves which are used around the world for food flavoring and medicine. Native species grow in Camarines Norte, Cebu and Mindanao.

In 2011, the country imported 29,000 kilos of cinnamon while exporting 6,000 kilos. The tree is also ideal for restoring deforested areas. Despite these benefits, however, very little is known about Philippine cinnamons.

The study was funded by the Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects Service of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. (Rizalina K. Araral/ April 29, 2019)#