In pursuit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen fiber sector research, production, and education, and aligned with the Department of Agriculture’s goal under Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. to advance sustainable and competitive agricultural practices, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), under the leadership of Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, with PhilFIDA Regional Office V, conducted a two-day Abaca Handloom Weaving Training in Labo, Camarines Norte.
The training, held in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Labo and the Labo Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LMPC), aimed to equip participants, particularly women and youth, with essential handloom weaving skills using locally sourced abaca fibers. This initiative promotes sustainable, eco-friendly, and biodegradable fiber production while providing additional livelihood opportunities in abaca-producing communities.
Facilitated by the PhilFIDA Provincial Office of Camarines Norte, under the guidance of Provincial Fiber Officer Mr. Edgar A. Abriol and Regional Training Coordinator Ms. Virginia N. Roranes, the sessions featured hands-on learning led by Ms. Nancy Ramirez, a skilled LMPC weaver. The step-by-step demonstrations enabled participants to grasp the craft quickly and confidently.
This collaborative effort underscores PhilFIDA and LGU-Labo’s shared commitment to supporting abaca farmers, empowering rural communities, especially women, and preserving the rich tradition of abaca weaving as a means for inclusive and sustainable development.
