By Kenneth Marcos 
In the quiet farming villages of Caramoran, Catanduanes, bundles of dried abaca fiber are carefully tied and prepared for sale. For many families, these fibers are more than crops. They are the main source of income, paying for food, school needs, and daily expenses.
To strengthen this vital industry, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) held a consultative meeting in February 2026 to advance the operationalization of an abaca fiber buying and trading station in Barangay Panique, Caramoran, Catanduanes.
The meeting was led by PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” Atienza, with the support of OIC-Deputy Executive Director Engr. Ramil B. Barcelona and OIC-Regional Director Mary Anne R. Molina. Officials from the local government of Caramoran, led by Mayor Glenda V. Aguilar, along with leaders of the local cooperative, joined the discussion at the PhilFIDA Central Office.
The main goal of the meeting was to strengthen market access for abaca farmers and ensure the smooth operation of the buying and trading station. Once operational, the station will provide farmers in Caramoran with a direct and reliable market for their abaca fiber. This is expected to reduce dependence on middlemen and help farmers secure fairer prices.
Abaca, known globally as Manila hemp, is one of the Philippines’ major agricultural exports. The country remains the world’s top producer of abaca fiber, supplying raw materials for ropes, specialty paper, handicrafts, and eco-friendly products. Catanduanes is among the leading abaca-producing provinces, making the project crucial for the local economy.
During the meeting, PhilFIDA officials and local leaders discussed strengthening partnerships among the local government unit, national agencies, cooperatives, and private sector stakeholders. They also tackled capacity-building programs to help cooperatives improve fiber quality, grading, and marketing strategies.
PhilFIDA emphasized that strong market linkages are essential to building a competitive and sustainable fiber industry. By organizing farmers into cooperatives and connecting them directly with buyers, the government hopes to improve income stability and encourage higher productivity.
The initiative supports the broader vision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. to revitalize the Philippine fiber industry through market-driven and inclusive strategies. The focus is not only on increasing production but also on ensuring that farmers benefit fairly from the value chain.
PhilFIDA reaffirmed its commitment to provide operational and technical assistance as the buying and trading station prepares to begin operations. A field visit is scheduled in March 2026 to finalize business plans, conduct a Training of Trainers program, and formalize key agreements with stakeholders.
For farmers in Caramoran, the establishment of a local buying station could mean lower transport costs and quicker payments. It also creates opportunities for improved fiber grading and quality control, which can lead to better prices in both domestic and international markets.
As global demand grows for sustainable and biodegradable materials, abaca remains a strategic crop for the Philippines. Strengthening local systems and empowering farming communities are key steps in securing the future of the industry.
With continued cooperation between government agencies and local communities, initiatives like this aim to uplift rural livelihoods and ensure that abaca farming remains a stable source of income for generations to come.
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