By Kenneth Marcos 
In the quiet farming town of Viga, Catanduanes, abaca growers continue to battle invisible enemies that threaten their main source of income. But hope is being restored as the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) ramps up its Abaca Disease Management Program to protect the province’s prized fiber.
On the ground, PhilFIDA is working hand-in-hand with local farmers to stop the spread of abaca mosaic virus, abaca bunchy top, and other plant diseases that have severely affected abaca plantations in the region. These diseases, if left unchecked, could cripple the industry that supports thousands of Filipino families.
Catanduanes is known as the “Abaca Capital of the Philippines,” contributing more than 30% of the country’s abaca fiber production. But the industry has faced recurring problems over the years, with farmers reporting losses due to the rapid spread of infections across farmlands.
To address this, PhilFIDA has launched a series of field activities in Viga, including on-site inspections, distribution of disease-free planting materials, and farmer training programs. Specialists are teaching local growers how to detect symptoms early and apply proper sanitation and control measures.
Aside from disease control, PhilFIDA is also introducing modern farming technologies and sustainable techniques to help farmers increase their yield. These include the use of certified abaca cultivars that are resistant to disease, improved harvesting methods, and guidance on pest management.
The program is part of a broader effort under the Department of Agriculture’s goal to support Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas, which prioritizes modernizing the agriculture sector while supporting local livelihoods.
According to PhilFIDA officials, the agency is also coordinating with local government units to provide livelihood support and cash-for-work programs for farmers whose abaca production was severely affected. This aims to keep families afloat while recovery efforts are underway.
“Hindi po namin kayo pababayaan,” one PhilFIDA representative said during a recent visit. “Patuloy po kaming magdadala ng tulong at teknolohiya para mapanatili ang buhay na kabuhayan sa abaca.”
Farmers who joined the training expressed appreciation, saying the assistance not only gave them practical knowledge but also restored their hope. “Malaking bagay ito sa amin. Akala namin wala na kaming maaasahan,” said one grower who lost more than half of his abaca crop last year.
With continued support, PhilFIDA hopes to reduce the impact of abaca diseases not only in Catanduanes but across other abaca-growing provinces in the country. The agency also urged farmers to immediately report any signs of disease in their areas and to participate in ongoing community-level programs.
The fight to protect abaca is far from over, but with teamwork, education, and proper tools, the future of this valuable natural fiber—and the farmers who grow it—remains bright.
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