DOST to develop forest DNA database to combat illegal timber trade

Experts from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) are developing a DNA-based identification tool to strengthen the protection of the Philippine forest by identifying timber species against illegally sourced materials passed off as legitimate.

Through the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI), the Philippine Forest DNA Database is a reference system that will allow authorities and other users to identify timber species at the molecular level.

The database will support the identification and verification of unknown wood samples and endemic species, even those listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

For DOST secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., this innovation is ultimately about protecting both the country’s forests and the people who depend on them. “When we can identify our forest products with greater certainty, we strengthen our ability to protect and sustainably manage what remains of our forests,” he said. “Timber can be difficult to identify once a tree has been cut, processed, or turned into a finished product. By the time wood reaches a checkpoint, port, or market, its species may already be difficult to confirm,” explained DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon.

For years, wood identification has relied largely on examining a sample’s physical and anatomical characteristics. This approach works well when these features are still intact. However, when wood is processed or heavily degraded, identifying it may pose a challenge.

DNA analysis offers another way to identify wood by examining the biological information contained in the sample itself. Through its newly established Wood and Non-wood DNA Laboratory, DOST-FPRDI can extract DNA from wood samples and use molecular characteristics to determine the species they came from.

DOST secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. looked on as personnel from the DOST-FPRDI demonstrated the equipment at the Wood and Non-Wood Laboratory. (Photo by Patrick James Lee C. Alfonso, DOST-STII)

According to DNA Project Lead Forester Jennifer M. Conda, the process begins with the collection and grinding of wood samples, followed by cell lysis and contaminant removal. The DNA is then isolated, washed, and purified for further analysis.

This approach can complement traditional wood identification methods and provide more specific scientific evidence when physical characteristics are difficult to recognize.

For law enforcement agencies, this provides another scientific tool for investigating suspected illegal timber. For legitimate producers and exporters, it can provide stronger evidence that their products are properly identified and documented.

The innovation can also support Philippine forest products entering international markets. Countries such as the United States and Australia, as well as countries in Europe, have strict requirements for imported timber and other forest products. Reliable species identification can help demonstrate that Philippine products meet these requirements.

The Wood and Non-wood DNA Laboratory was funded by the DOST-Grants-In-Aid Program and is being monitored by the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD).

The DNA team is continuously strengthening their capacity for DNA extraction and sequencing, with the goal of establishing a comprehensive molecular reference for Philippine timber species. The Institute plans to open the facility to the public once the database has been fully established, with testing services projected to be offered by 2030.

“The goal goes beyond identifying wood. It is about giving the Philippines better science to protect its forests, uphold legal and sustainable trade, and safeguard the resources that future generations will inherit,” Cabangon emphasized.

The Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) is one of the attached agencies of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All. For more information, visit www.fprdi.dost.gov.ph (By Erika Mae V. Marmol and Maria Greatchin S. Brucal, DOST-FPRDI)