In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to advance fiber sector research, production, and education, and aligned with the Department of Agriculture’s advance under the leadership of Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. to promote sustainable and competitive agricultural practices, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority conducted a 4-day Training of Trainers (TOT) on Abaca Production and Fiber Grading on May 27-30, 2025 in Davao City through the Technical Assistance Division (TAD) in collaboration with PhilFIDA Regional Office XI. The activity was designed to strengthen technical knowledge and practical competencies of agricultural personnel and farmer-leaders involved in abaca production.
The training was formally opened by Executive Director Arnold “Ali” A. Atienza, with TAD OIC Manolito F. Apalla and OIC-Regional Director Irma R. Rodis, reflecting the agency’s strong support for capacity development initiatives. The activity utilized blended learning setup, with participants attending onsite, additional participants engaged via MS Teams, and a broader audience joining through the Facebook livestream.
The training covered essential aspects of abaca production and postharvest handling through integrated lectures and field demonstrations. Topics included site selection, land preparation, planting, farm maintenance, pest and disease management, harvesting, drying, bundling, storage, and proper fiber classification, grading, and baling. Practical sessions on fiber sorting, weighing, pressing, baling, tuxying, and stripping reinforced the lectures, allowing participants to connect theory with standard industry practices. Discussions and open forums ensured knowledge transfer, addressed technical concerns, and gathered insights for further improvement. The activity concluded with closing remarks delivered by OIC Deputy Executive Director Engr. Ramil Barcelona emphasized the importance of continuous learning and capacity building in strengthening the abaca industry.
