The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Regional Office IX, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-ZDS), conducted a Livelihood Training on Abaca Handmade Paper Making on August 27–29, 2025, at Barangay Nangan-Nangan, Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur.
The activity aimed to enhance the utilization of abaca fiber in the community, strengthen support for the abaca industry, and provide additional livelihood opportunities for local farmers.
This initiative was spearheaded and supported by Mr. Keven Badon, OIC-Regional Director of PhilFIDA-IX, together with Mr. Felix Nepomuceno, Technical Assistance Unit Head and Resource Person; Ms. Fedelyn Espiritu, Provincial Fiber Officer; Ms. Edelyn Ondo-Lopoy, Abaca Industry Focal Person of DTI-ZDS; Mr. Timoteo Gualiza, President of the Nangan-Nangan Farmers Association; and Hon. Russel Lumilis, Barangay Chairman.
The participants are members of the Nangan-Nangan Farmers Association, were equipped with the knowledge and skills to produce high-quality handmade paper from abaca fiber.
The initial outputs of the training were used for the certificates of participants during the 3-day activity and for the diplomas of the graduating class of Nangan-Nangan Elementary School for CY 2025–2026.
Moving forward, the products will be introduced to various schools and offices for potential use in printing certificates, diplomas, and other official documents, thereby creating a sustainable market and adding value to the community’s abaca production.
