By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the bright lights of a Quezon City hall, Mr. Mamerto D. Te stood before a gathering of peers, government officials, and industry partners on December 2, 2025, sharing a story of hard work, learning, and pride.
Mr. Te, representing the Abaca Sector of the Provincial Agricultural and Fishery Council in Region V, was recognized during PhilFIDA’s Partner Stakeholders Recognition event for his dedication to the abaca industry. In his speech, he reflected on his dual role as a farmer and trader, describing how guidance from the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) helped him improve his skills in abaca classification, tuxying, and other key processes vital to quality production.
“PhilFIDA’s support has helped me not only grow my business but also serve our farmers better,” Mr. Te said. His message resonated with the audience, highlighting the deep connection between Filipino farmers and their crops.
Abaca, often called Manila hemp, remains a significant source of livelihood in many Philippine provinces. Farmers like Mr. Te play a crucial role in sustaining the industry while adapting to modern standards and global competition. Through training programs, technical guidance, and market linkages, PhilFIDA has been working to empower farmers, improve product quality, and strengthen the value chain from farm to market.
Mr. Te’s story is a testament to the impact of government support combined with individual perseverance. By mastering technical skills and adopting best practices, he has not only improved his own livelihood but also contributed to the broader abaca community in Region V.
The recognition event emphasized the importance of honoring stakeholders who serve as both custodians and innovators of the abaca industry. As Mr. Te’s speech reminded everyone, preserving and uplifting this uniquely Filipino crop is both a responsibility and a shared source of pride.
The PhilFIDA recognition reflects a broader commitment to helping farmers thrive, ensuring that abaca production continues to provide economic opportunities while sustaining a treasured national resource.
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