By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the sweltering heat of the sun, abaca farmers in Catanduanes continue their work—stripping, drying, and bundling fiber that has long been their lifeline. But as challenges mount, from low prices to aging plants, hope comes in the form of a new partnership aiming to bring life back to this vital industry.
In a move to strengthen the abaca sector in Catanduanes, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) met with national and local officials, including TGP Partylist Representative Jose “Bong” Teves Jr., municipal leaders, and representatives from Young Farmers and Local Government Associations (YLGAs) in a collaborative meeting held recently in the province.
Leading the discussions were PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” Atienza, OIC-Regional Director Mary Anne Molina, and OIC-Technical Assistance Division Head Manolito Apalla. The gathering focused on identifying key development projects to increase abaca production, improve farmer incomes, and expand market access.
This initiative is in line with the national call of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. to promote inclusive agricultural growth and strengthen rural industries.
Abaca, also known as Manila hemp, is one of the Philippines’ most valuable export fibers. The country supplies about 85% of the world’s abaca, used in everything from ropes to banknotes. Catanduanes, often called the “Abaca Capital of the Philippines,” plays a crucial role in this trade. But the sector faces many hurdles—natural disasters, lack of modern farming tools, and unstable prices have all taken a toll.
According to PhilFIDA, the collaborative efforts aim not only to boost productivity but also to give abaca farmers better access to support services, training, and financial aid. By working with local government units and grassroots organizations, the agency hopes to create programs that directly benefit farming communities.
During the meeting, local officials expressed support for infrastructure development, abaca disease control programs, and better market linkages for processed fibers. Plans were also discussed to provide technical assistance and machinery that would lessen the manual burden on farmers.
PhilFIDA emphasized that for the abaca industry to thrive again, all sectors must work together—from the national government to the smallest barangay. Their goal is to ensure that every abaca farmer sees the fruits of their labor not just in harvest, but in real income and opportunity.
As the country pushes forward with the “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign, abaca remains a symbol of Filipino resilience and resourcefulness. By supporting those who cultivate it, the government hopes to build a stronger, more inclusive rural economy.
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