The DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) bannered its green innovations during the Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX) held at the SMX Convention Center Aura, Taguig City.
With the theme “Innovation towards Environmental Stewardship,” the Institute highlighted its innovations in forest products that champion sustainability. Among these are the Solidrum— a drum shell made from engineered bamboo, and Silyang Pinoy— a multi-functional school furniture that can be converted into a bed and used during emergencies.
Both innovations showcase the potential of bamboo for high-value products while promoting eco-friendly practices and supporting local bamboo industries.
The opening of the event was marked with a “Sustainability Beat”, with DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy playing the Solidrum and angklung.
In his keynote message, Secretary Solidum emphasized the importance of moving from words to measurable action.
“My call is simple: enough talk. We have had summits, forums, declarations that fill up shelves and inboxes. What we need now is proof. Businesses must set their sights on real, tangible goals, not pretty brochures, not slogans, but numbers you can measure, promises you can check. Data empowers delivery of services, and delivery improves and saves lives”, he said.
Aside from Solidrum and Silyang Pinoy, the Institute also showcased its Bamboo Musical Instruments, which highlight local craftsmanship while promoting the use of sustainable raw materials; the Lalang Pandan collection, which demonstrates how traditional weaving can be elevated through science and innovative design; and the Green Fragrance with a Purpose project, an initiative that uses sustainable method to produce high-quality essential oils from aromatic plants.
DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon joined the panel discussion on “Circular Economy Models & Innovation from the EU”. Drawing from the experiences of Europe, such as Sweden’s advanced water filtration systems that recycle floodwater and Denmark’s sustainable wood processing industry that converts wood waste into particle boards, he outlined how these practices can inspire local initiatives.
“The DOST-FPRDI will be developing a portable water filtration system for emergency use. Other initiatives also include producing bamboo and agarwood leaves for tea and using bamboo pyroligneous liquid as an organic pesticide against onion armyworms. These innovations demonstrate how forest products can be transformed into sustainable solutions that meet the needs of industries and communities”, said Cabangon.
The SUSTEX gathered industry leaders, innovators, government agencies, and international partners to showcase initiatives that promote sustainable practices and resilient communities. The two-day event was organized by SM Prime Holdings, Inc., DOST and ARISE Philippines. ### (Maybell Mariella A. Palaypayon, 07 September 2025)
Among the attendees were SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Mr. Hans Sy, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., and DOST Undersecretary for R&D Dr. Leah J. Buendia.
Also exhibited were DOST-FPRDI’s high-end handwoven Lalang Pandan collection, Green Fragrance products sourced from local aromatic plants, and select Bamboo Musical Instruments prototypes developed by the Institute.
DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon (2nd from right) joins a panel discussion on circular economy.
