The National Bamboo and Rattan R&D Commodity both belong to non-wood forest products. These two species are quick growing and require little attention during the growing/production cycle.  Both plants occupy much the same ecological niche as trees and are suitable for agroforestry and healthy ecosystems.  The versatility of both species as raw material for the manufacture of strong and sturdy furniture, handicrafts, and novelty items outmatches most tree species.  They have gained more importance as nature’s substitute for the old and endangered rainforest hardwoods. 

During the last two decades, products from these two commodities gained popularity and wide acceptance not only in the country but worldwide.  The Philippine bamboo and rattan industries have made significant contributions in generating foreign exchange and rural employment.  As the single most important cluster of non-timber forest products,

 bamboo and rattan contribute over USD 14 billion to national economies each year.

Research and Development priorities of the National Bamboo and Rattan R&D Commodity are as follows:

1. Bamboo and Rattan Resources Management
2. Bamboo and Rattan Utilization (expand the extent of post harvest technology and investigate the potential use of other parts of the plant
3. Technology Development, Promotion and Commercialization
4. Economics and marketing
5. Policy and Institution Strengthening