Biliran is positioning itself to become the agarwood capital of Eastern Visayas as local officials, scientists, and community producers work to build a value-added industry around one of the world’s most sought-after fragrant woods.
Recent initiatives led by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and supported by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan signal a shift from small-scale, raw-material trading toward a more structured sector capable of producing finished wellness and cosmetic products.
The province’s push is shaped in part by Vice Governor Roselyn Espina-Paras’ broader goal of steering Biliran toward niche industries that can compete regionally.
While not framed as a personal advocacy, her role as presiding officer of the Provincial Board has ensured that resolutions supporting DOST’s technical programs such as MSME trainings in Naval, are passed swiftly.
These measures provide the policy backbone needed to institutionalize agarwood-related activities, from research support to enterprise development.
Agarwood, long prized for its resinous scent and high market value, has attracted growing attention in Region 8.
Until recently, most local engagement focused on small-scale cultivation or raw chip sales.
But Biliran’s new direction emphasizes value addition, particularly processing agarwood derivatives into balms, liniments, and aromatherapy goods.
This shift aims to help communities access higher-income streams while reducing reliance on fluctuating raw-material prices.
The latest DOST-facilitated training gathered farmers, cultivators, and MSMEs for hands-on sessions in formulation and product safety.
Participants learned how to transform agarwood oils into market-ready products, a step that experts say is essential if Biliran hopes to compete with established producers in other parts of the country.
“This initiative shows how science and technology can directly uplift communities,” a DOST Region 8 official said. “By equipping farmers to process their own materials, we’re helping build a sustainable local industry instead of just a trading activity.”
Stakeholders also highlight the importance of responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship, given agarwood’s slow growth cycle and protected status in many countries.
Biliran’s efforts include encouraging plantation-grown aquilaria trees and exploring partnerships with research institutions to improve resin induction methods.
As discussions expand, some producers have expressed interest in supplementing early production with imported agarwood derivatives—an approach that could stabilize supply while local plantations mature.
This possibility, officials say, may help Biliran MSMEs scale more quickly and test markets for value-added products within Region 8.
With technical training underway, legislative support in place, and growing local engagement, Biliran is taking deliberate steps toward carving out its identity as the region’s emerging hub for agarwood-based enterprises, one rooted in science, sustainability, and community participation.
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