By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the shade of coconut trees in a rural village in Polangui, Albay, farmers gathered with notebooks in hand and hope in their hearts. For many of them, abaca is more than a crop. It is a source of income passed down through generations, now facing challenges that require new skills and stronger support.
The Albay’s Finest Abaca Fiber Association (AFAFA) Inc. successfully held its first training and seminar on January 16, 2026, at Barangay Danao, Polangui, Albay. The activity carried the theme “Revitalizing Abaca in Albay” and aimed to help farmers improve the quality and yield of their abaca crops.
The training was conducted in partnership with the Albay Development Foundation for Agriculture and Community Development, the Albay Provincial Agriculture Office, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Region V, and the non-government organization Isang Bansang Pilipino. A total of 45 abaca and coconut farmers took part in the activity.
During the seminar, participants were trained on Good Agricultural Practices, or GAP, which focus on proper planting, maintenance, harvesting, and handling of abaca. These practices are essential in improving fiber quality, reducing losses, and increasing farm income. Farmers also learned practical techniques to boost productivity while protecting soil health and the environment.
Experts from PhilFIDA Region V shared updates on the current state of the abaca industry and explained how quality standards affect market prices. Abaca is one of the Philippines’ top natural fiber exports, used in products such as ropes, specialty paper, and eco-friendly materials. However, many farmers struggle with low yields due to pests, diseases, and outdated farming methods.
The presence of PhilFIDA Region V underscored the government’s commitment to supporting farmer groups like AFAFA and strengthening the abaca industry in Albay. Officials emphasized that training and strong farmer organizations are key to making the sector more competitive and resilient.
Local agriculture officials also highlighted the importance of collaboration among government agencies, farmer groups, and civil society organizations. By working together, they said, farmers can gain better access to technical support, markets, and future assistance programs.
For AFAFA, the training marked an important milestone. As a newly organized association, the group sees education and unity as the foundation of its growth. Leaders of the association said the seminar is only the beginning of a series of activities aimed at improving members’ skills and livelihoods.
Many farmers who attended expressed optimism after the training. Some shared that they had been planting abaca the same way for years and were eager to apply new methods they learned. Others said the seminar helped them understand why quality matters and how better practices can lead to higher income.
Abaca remains a vital crop in Albay, providing jobs and supporting rural communities. Reviving the industry is seen as a way to strengthen the local economy while promoting sustainable agriculture.
As the activity ended, organizers called on farmers to continue working together and to apply the lessons learned in their farms. With continued support and cooperation, stakeholders believe that abaca farming in Albay can regain its strength and provide better opportunities for future generations.
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