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The Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) industry has grown significantly in the Philippine economy. NTFPs collection for trade was once considered a promising strategy to battle and alleviate poverty in rural areas and forest  dependent communities. Its growing importance, especially to local forest dependent, communities calls for updated and comprehensive policies and regulations that can promote not only sustainable forest management but equitable revenue sharing. To achieve this, the study recommends a standard classification policy and guidelines for almaciga (Agathis philippinensis Warb.). 

Almaciga is a native tree commonly found in the provinces of Quezon, Zambales, Cagayan, Abra, Kalinga, Apayao, Nueva Vizcaya, Zamboanga, Compostela Valley, Ilocos Norte, Samar, Sibuyan Island, Davao, and Palawan, Philippines. It is categorized as “Vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Almaciga produces amber-colored exudation and resin, internationally known as Manila Copal and locally known as Bagtik. Resins are used for various purposes, such as making or manufacturing varnishes, paints, soaps, plastics, printing ink, linoleum, etc. (Ella et al. 2003). It is locally used in torches and for starting fire and fuelwood. It is sometimes also used as a caulking substance and smudge for mosquitoes. Moreover, the resins produced are exported or sold to local manufacturers, furniture, and basketware industries.