The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority Regional Office VII (PhilFIDA RO VII), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental and its Negros Oriental Agri-Fisheries Center (NOAFC), recently conducted an intensive “Training of Trainers on Abaca Production Technology with an Emphasis on Good Agricultural Practices.” This initiative aims to enhance the skills of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in Negros Oriental, promoting sustainable and efficient abaca farming practices. The training covered crucial topics such as abaca morphology, cultural management, pest and disease control, and post-harvest processes, ensuring a comprehensive understanding for the participants.

Negros Oriental was chosen as the pilot province for Region VII under the Department of Agriculture’s Province-led Agriculture and Fisheries Extension System, in alignment with Executive Order (EO) No. 138. This initiative mandates the full devolution of certain executive functions to local government units, positioning the province to lead the delivery of agricultural extension services. The training sessions, facilitated by PhilFIDA and funded by the Agricultural Training Institute through the NOAFC, combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on demonstrations to provide practical skills in abaca production.

Key local officials, including Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Woodrow Maquiling, NOAFC Director, and Provincial Agriculturist Emmanuel Caduyac, attended the event, underscoring the provincial government’s commitment to supporting the abaca industry. The training was meticulously organized by Mr. Bernie Cual and the NOAFC staff, who ensured its seamless execution. This initiative represents a significant step towards empowering agricultural extension workers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to drive the development of the abaca industry, enhancing productivity, sustainability, and local economic growth.

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