Pursuant to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to advance fiber sector research, production, and education while seizing new growth opportunities, Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Executive Director Arnold โAliโ I. Atienza reaffirmed his support for the sericulture industry by promoting, improving, and developing silk-based products. Recognizing the potential of silk production in the country, PhilFIDA continues to strengthen partnerships and capacity-building programs to empower local farmers and stakeholders in the industry.
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As part of these efforts, Executive Director Arnold โAliโ I. Atienza, along with PhilFIDA OIC-Regional Director Mary Ann G. Nerio, TAU Head Tarcesio J. Nervar Jr., and Provincial Fiber Officer Nemspat Joevenet T. De Juan visited Brgy. Tabunan, Bago City, Negros Occidental, to conduct a familiarization session on silk and mulberry farming and meet with OISCA representatives Mr. Shegime Watanabe and Ms. Thelma Watanabe, along with the Brgy. Captain of Brgy. Tabunan. Discussion centered on the importance of high-quality mulberry leaves as the primary food source for silkworms and the overall process of silk productionโfrom rearing silkworms to harvesting and processing silk threads, and focused on expanding technical assistance, improving mulberry production, and strengthening collaborations to enhance silk farming as a viable livelihood in the region. The Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement (OISCA) has been instrumental in supporting the local silk industry through training programs and technology-sharing initiatives.
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With continued collaboration between PhilFIDA, OISCA, and local communities, the agency envisions a thriving sericulture sector that contributes to economic growth and provides sustainable livelihoods for Filipino farmers.
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