Philippines DOST-CAR promotes oleoresin tapping

The Department of Science and Technology – Cordillera is promoting the tapping of oleoresin in pine trees as source of livelihood among the locals.
Initial steps in promoting the income-generating project was through a training in Kabayan, according to DOST Provincial Science and Technology Chief Arnold Inumpa. The participants underwent a hands-on training on oleoresin extraction in pine trees including its processing.
The oleoresin is processed to remove the sticky substance to come up with gum rosin already in crystal form, said Inumpa. The rosin is used in the manufacture of products such as paint, adhesive products, asphalt cement, varnish, lacquer, printing ink, soap, linoleum among others.
Oleoresin when processed produces a by product called turpentine and is also used as raw material for perfumes, solvent thinner for oil-based paints, oil wood finishes, protective coating, and anti-septic for cleaning agents.
As there is not enough supply in the country, manufacturers import the raw material, Inumpa said.
He said there is an assured market for this product which cost from P95 to P125 per kilogram depending on the classification.
According to Inumpa, the output from the training among participants in Kabayan was considered as premium class which commands a higher price, and two companies already signified their interest in buying the processed product.
He explained that an average of one kilogram could be extracted per tree and harvest could be done weekly as resin regenerates. Oleoresin tapping does not harm the tree and even foresters are aware of the process, he added.
Oleoresin tapping, according to Inumpa, is not a new practice and had been done in the past but it died down due to the very low selling price. Accordingly, in the 1970s the processed resin was sold at a very meager price of only P1 per kilogram.
In venturing in such a business, Inumpa said there are legal procedures such as securing permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and other relevant permits that may be required. (JDP/SCA-PIA CAR, Benguet)