By Kenneth Marcos 
In the quiet town of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, a group of farmers and Indigenous Peoples carefully twisted fibers into strong abaca twines, learning skills that could transform their livelihoods. The room buzzed with focus and excitement as 20 participants, mostly women and IP community members, practiced scrunch and twine making under expert guidance.
From December 1–3, 2025, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) – Regional Office XIII held a hands-on training in partnership with Agata Mining Venture Inc.–Mabakas Techno-Demo Farm and supported by the Fiber Utilization and Technology Division (FUTD). The activity aimed to equip local farmers with practical skills in producing abaca-based handicrafts, a move that supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision to uplift Filipino farmers and strengthen local industries.
PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza highlighted the agency’s focus on programs that align with the Department of Agriculture’s efforts to promote the fiber industry. “Our goal is to empower farmers and communities to create high-quality abaca products that can provide sustainable income,” he said.
The training was led by PhilFIDA experts Ms. Marnelli F. Racsa, Ms. Psymie Madel F. Ceballos, and Ms. Phoebe Grace C. Colonia. Participants learned scrunch crafting, fiber knotting, and efficient twine production, practicing techniques that ensure durability and market-ready quality. For many, it was their first time creating abaca handicrafts, and confidence quickly grew as they mastered each step.
To help trainees continue their work at home, PhilFIDA provided starter kits with escuhido fibers, knotted abaca fiber, a twiner, and essential materials for scrunch making, including white glue, cleaned fibers, and pressing tools. Participants expressed gratitude, noting that the training gives them a way to earn income while contributing to their community’s participation in the abaca value chain.
PhilFIDA Caraga pledged to continue similar trainings across the region, targeting farmers, women’s groups, and IP communities to expand skills development and livelihood opportunities. By strengthening local production and empowering communities, the program also supports broader goals of sustainable agriculture and rural development.
Through initiatives like this, abaca—a traditional Philippine fiber—can remain a vital source of income, culture, and resilience for local communities, bridging tradition with modern livelihood opportunities.
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