May 6–8, 2025 | Manuel Roxas, Mutia, and Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte
The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) – Zamboanga del Norte successfully conducted a series of one-day trainings on the Operation and Maintenance of the Abaca Spindle Stripping Machine (ASSM) on May 6, 7, and 8, 2025, in the municipalities of Manuel Roxas, Mutia, and Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte.
These trainings aimed to capacitate the local abaca farmers in machine handling and fiber processing as part of the 2024 HIBLA Farming: Mechanization Sustainability Program. The program focuses on improving and increasing productivity and promoting sustainable mechanized farming practices.
The beneficiaries of the training include the Roxas Association of Subanen Tribe, Abaca Growers and Harvesters Association (AGHA) and SAAD Farmers Association.
Each training session featured a briefing and orientation on the objectives of the HIBLA Program, a comprehensive guide on the operation and maintenance and a hands-on demonstration of the ASSM.
The activity was spearheaded by Ms. Angelita P. Lanzado, Provincial Fiber Officer, with support from Mr. Rowill Fortich, Senior Fiber Development Officer, Ms. Ruby Jane T. Padilla, FDO I, and Mr. Nazarino Balansag, Machine Operator. Representatives from various local agencies supporting abaca production and development—including DA-LGUs, IPs, and DTI-Zamboanga del Norte.
This initiative is part of PhilFIDA’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable abaca farming through mechanization, capacity-building, and strong collaboration with local stakeholders.
