PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, with Regional Director Eugene Galela, led a team visit to Newtech Pulp Inc. (NPI) in Balo-I, Lanao del Norte, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to advance fiber sector research, production, and education while seizing new growth opportunities. Discussions centered on the closure of NPI’s Buying Station and its impact on Class B, C, and D traders in Region 10. NPI explained that its fiber inventory is sufficient, and its monthly requirement has dropped from 1,100 to 650 metric tons due to global market disruptions. However, NPI expects a recovery by late 2025, with demand gradually increasing to 700–800 MT by 2026.
Aligned with the Department of Agriculture’s commitment under Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. to promote sustainable and competitive agricultural practices, the conversation also addressed NPI’s importation of abaca fiber from Costa Rica and Ecuador. NPI clarified that these imports, which account for 2.5% of their monthly usage, are necessary to meet specific product quality standards. While acknowledging these imports, PhilFIDA emphasized its role in regulating abaca fiber imports to enhance local production and promote sustainable, eco-friendly, and biodegradable fiber production.
This engagement reflects PhilFIDA’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with key industry players to secure a sustainable future for the Philippine abaca sector. By aligning market needs with government priorities, the agency aims to strengthen local production, support farmers, and ensure the long-term growth of the fiber industry.
