On September 19, 2024, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority Regional Office XII (PhilFIDA RO XIII) organized an Abaca Stakeholders’ Forum in Butuan City. The event gathered farmers, fiber traders, and local government representatives from Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, and Surigao del Sur to discuss issues affecting the abaca industry and explore solutions through PhilFIDA’s programs for FY 2025.

Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Council Chairman, Mr. Christopher Lindo, emphasized the need for better coordination within the industry, proposing the formation of an Abaca Regional Council. During the open forum, participants addressed concerns such as abaca diseases, the need for stripping machines to improve fiber quality, the provision of disease-free planting materials, and requests for financial assistance.

The forum served as a platform for collaboration and the formulation of resolutions aimed at tackling the challenges within the abaca sector. The outcomes of this event are expected to contribute to the sustainable growth and development of the abaca industry in the region.

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