The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) officially turned over the Cotton Processing Center at the Ilocos Fiber Experiment Station in Labnig, San Juan, Ilocos Sur, to the Suyo Multipurpose Cooperative (SMPC) in a ceremony held on September 4, 2024. PhilFIDA was represented by OIC Executive Director Evelyn B. Cagasan, while Luzviminda L. Apuya, CEO of SMPC, accepted the facility on behalf of the cooperative. Key local leaders, including Governor Jeremias “Jerry” Singson, Vice Governor Ryan Luis V. Singson, and Congressman Ronald V. Singson thru their representative Provincial Administrator Marlon Tagorda served as witnesses of the momentous juncture.

PhilFIDA OIC Executive Director Evelyn B. Cagasan, expressed heartfelt thanks to Senator Loren Legarda for her pivotal role in revitalizing the Philippine cotton industry, particularly through her unwavering support and funding of the project. She also commended PhilFIDA Regional Office I for their essential provision of seed cotton which was instrumental in driving the initiative forward. She further called on local government units (LGUs) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) to continue backing the project to ensure its long-term success. Regional Director Edel M. Dondonilla also underscored the strong demand for cotton in Region I and the Cordillera Region, where it serves as a vital source of livelihood.

Dr. Florentino A. Adame, OIC-RTD for Research & Regulations of DA-RFO I, representing OIC-Regional Executive Director John V. Pascual, praised the turnover as a decisive step towards revitalizing the cotton industry and called for continuous collaboration with agencies like PhilFIDA to fully realize the center’s potential. Provincial Administrator Marlon Tagorda, representing Governor Jeremias “Jerry” Singson, highlighted the importance of the facility in achieving its long-term vision for a prosperous Ilocos Sur, emphasizing the need for unity among PhilFIDA, the DA, and local government.

The event concluded with a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signing between PhilFIDA, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur, and the Suyo Multipurpose Cooperative, solidifying their partnership in the operation of the Cotton Processing Center. This turnover marks a new chapter in the cotton industry of Ilocos Sur, with the center poised to play a crucial role in boosting local production and contributing to the region’s economic growth.