By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the warm sun in Alabel, local fiber farmers gathered early, many carrying samples of abaca fiber they had harvested by hand. For them, every strand represents hours of labor and the hope of earning a stable income. This week, those hopes were brought to the center of discussion as the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) led a major dialogue on strengthening the fiber sector and expanding access to global markets.
PhilFIDA Regional Office XI, together with the Municipal Government of Alabel and the Provincial Government of Sarangani, hosted a Fiber Industry Stakeholders’ Investment Forum in Alabel, Sarangani Province. The activity supported national directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., emphasizing the need to boost agricultural industries that create long-term livelihoods.
Around 60 participants attended, including fiber farmers and producers, traders, processors and exporters, officials from local and national government agencies, and a potential international buyer from Kensller MRG LLC based in Dubai. Their discussions focused on the current state of the fiber industry, PhilFIDA’s upcoming projects, and the persistent challenges that hinder market growth. Stakeholders also explored opportunities to tap international demand for high-quality abaca, one of the Philippines’ most valued natural fibers.
Farmers shared their experiences in production and trading, describing both the promise of rising demand and the struggles brought by fluctuating prices, pest outbreaks, and limited access to modern equipment. Local government units expressed their commitment to support the industry, recognizing its importance in generating income for remote communities.
One of the major highlights of the forum was the presentation of the “Alabel Abaca Development and Border Control Program Ordinance of 2025” by Hon. Enriquito A. Daguplo. The ordinance establishes a permanent abaca development program in the municipality and ensures funding for production, post-harvest facilities, processing, marketing support, and border control to protect farms from disease spread. Officials said the measure will help the industry grow in a more organized, secure, and sustainable way.
The event also featured the signing of a Pledge of Commitment, showing united support from farmers, traders, processors, and government partners. The pledge signifies a shared goal: to expand the fiber sector and strengthen its role in local economic development.
In her closing message, Engr. Irma R. Rodis, OIC-Regional Director of PhilFIDA XI and XII, thanked the Municipality of Alabel for its steady partnership and acknowledged the leadership of PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” Atienza, whose guidance continues to strengthen the agency’s work nationwide. She encouraged farmers to remain engaged in fiber production and assured them that PhilFIDA will continue delivering farmer-centered services designed to raise productivity and improve livelihoods.
With unified efforts from communities and government institutions, the fiber industry in Sarangani stands poised for growth—lifting the lives of families who rely on abaca and other natural fibers for their daily income.
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