By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the warm sun of Virac, Catanduanes, the steady hands of abaca farmers work tirelessly to nurture their crops. For Mr. Raymond and Carla Zafe, their one-hectare abaca farm is more than just land—it is the heart of their livelihood and hope for a better future.
On October 16, 2025, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) visited the Zafe farm to provide field monitoring and technical assistance. Led by Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, alongside OIC-Regional Director Mary Anne R. Molina and OIC-Technical Assistance Division Manolito F. Apalla, the team assessed the condition of the abaca plants and shared expert advice on managing diseases and adopting sustainable farming methods.
This visit is part of PhilFIDA’s ongoing efforts, aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.’s directive to boost agricultural productivity and ensure steady incomes for Filipino farmers. By offering hands-on support and practical training, the agency aims to help abaca growers increase their harvest and make their farms more resilient against pests, diseases, and changing weather conditions.
Abaca is a vital crop in the Philippines, known worldwide for its strong fiber used in ropes, handicrafts, and textiles. Yet, many farmers face challenges like plant diseases and outdated farming practices, which limit their earnings. With continuous technical guidance, farmers like the Zafes can improve crop health and yields, securing better income and contributing to the local economy.
PhilFIDA’s field activities fall under the Department of Agriculture’s program, Masaganang Agrikultura, Maunlad na Ekonomiya, which strives to modernize farming sectors and uplift rural communities. Strengthening the abaca industry supports not only farmers but also preserves a key part of the country’s agricultural heritage.
As the Zafe family and many others continue their work on the fields, the partnership between farmers and government agencies like PhilFIDA lights a hopeful path toward a more prosperous and sustainable agricultural future in the Philippines.
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