On October 10, 2017, Mahintana Foundation, Inc. represented by Mr. Martiniano L. Magdolot, President & CEO, Mr. Jobe C. Tubigon, Program Manager, Mr. Roel Ian P. Blanker, Project Coordinator and Ms. Ella Mae M. Babao, Project Officer, participated in the round table discussion about the NACI Dike Technology Assessment. The meeting was held at the Media Room, Community Center, Ateneo De Davao University.
The Project leader of the NACI Dike Assessment, Dr. Jesse B. Manuta, introduced the rationale and the overview of the research. This was followed by the presentations on Dike Technology given by Engr. Richard P. Manapol from the Civil Engineering Department; Cultural Adoption and Adaptation presented by Dr. Rosalinda T. Tomas from the Anthropology Department; and Ecological Assessment by Dr. Virgilio G. Dela Rosa who belonged in the Biology Department.
The discussion highlighted the primary intention and results of the bamboo dike technology, as a new structural measure to flood control and yet resulted as an effective erosion control system. The Mahintana project team remained attuned to their viewpoint and explained that the bamboo dike is a successful flood prevention measure. To further improve this kind of technology, the group came up with the following recommendations: (a) bamboos shall be planted at least 3 meters from the edge of the river; and (b) napier grass shall be planted between the poles.
Also in attendance were the different sectors from the academe represented by Ateneo De Davao University, Tribal Leaders Development Foundation, Inc. (TLDFI), Allah Valley Landscape Development Association (AVLDA) and the funding donor, Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE).