The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Regional Office VII launched the Season-long Climate Smart Field School (CSFS) on Abaca Production, in Barangay Inawasan, Pamplona, Negros Oriental. Aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to building a climate-resilient agriculture sector, the program seeks to equip local abaca farmers with sustainable techniques that respond to the growing challenges of climate change.
The training brought together 33 farmer-participants along with representatives from partner agencies including the Pamplona Municipal Agriculture Office and the Philippine Coconut Authority. Key PhilFIDA personnel from the Regional Office VII led the sessions, including Technical Assistance Unit Head Jose Dary C. Locsin, Provincial Fiber Officer Nena D. Locsin, and Fiber Development Officers Ms. Mariton Fema S. Tirambulo, Mr. Cleiford V. Suante, and Mr. Jason D. Singuran. The activity was made possible through the strong institutional support of the Department of Agriculture under Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel and the guidance of PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza.
Program highlights included discussions on climate-smart strategies, overview of the fiber industry in Negros Oriental, and community-building activities such as expectation-setting and leadership rotations among farmer groups. IEC materials were distributed to reinforce technical learning, while house rules were set to ensure commitment and participation throughout the season-long course.
This initiative underscores PhilFIDA’s ongoing efforts to uplift farming communities through practical training and innovation. By investing in farmer education and capacity-building, the agency continues to play a vital role in securing the future of the abaca industry and the livelihoods it supports.
