PRESS RELEASE
WDC-81-2024
24 October 2024
Embassy Press and Information Section
WASHINGTON D.C. – Cagayan De Oro-based Rizome Philippines was among six recipients of this year’s Secretary of State’s Award for Corporate Excellence (ACE) from the United States Department of State.
Rizome received the ACE award for Climate Resilience for pioneering the use of engineered bamboo in the construction industry from its flagship project in the Philippines. Rizome is using innovative technology to create a sustainable alternative to other construction materials, while reforesting with fast-growing bamboo, according to the State Department.
Ambassador Jose Manuel G. Romualdez, who witnessed the award ceremony, congratulated Rizome Founder and Chief Product Officer David Sands for taking the lead in manufacturing eco-friendly bamboo building materials that serve as alternatives to the traditional cement and steel. Rizome makes bamboo slats, veneers, panels, laminated veneer lumber and laminated strand lumber.
The Philippine bamboo is a significant national symbol which underscores the Filipino spirit of resilience as demonstrated by the bamboo’s resilient, durable and flexible attributes.
Aside from Climate Resilience, the 2024 ACE categories are Women’s Economic Security and Innovation to Strengthen Communities.
The ACE celebrates 25 years since its founding this year and over the years has highlighted how American businesses have raised the bar of corporate social responsibility and utilized innovative tools and technologies to create positive impacts in the world around them. ###