The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Regional Office XI, in partnership with the Municipal Government of Alabel and the Provincial Government of Sarangani, held the Fiber Industry Stakeholders’ Investment Forum in Alabel, Sarangani Province. Guided by the national directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., the Forum brought together 60 participants, including fiber farmers and producers, traders, processors/exporters, LGU officials, national government representatives, and a potential international client from Kensller MRG LLC, Dubai. Discussions centered on the status of the local fiber industry, PhilFIDA’s upcoming programs, current challenges, and opportunities for expanding access to global markets.
Stakeholders shared first-hand experiences in fiber production and trading, while partner LGUs and NGAs expressed strong messages of support. A major highlight was the presentation of the “Alabel Abaca Development and Border Control Program Ordinance of 2025” by Hon. Enriquito A. Daguplo, institutionalizing the municipality’s abaca development program and ensuring funding for production, postharvest, processing, marketing support, and border control. The event also featured the signing of a Pledge of Commitment, demonstrating the unified dedication of fiber farmers, traders, processors, and government partners to promote and develop the fiber industry as a vital livelihood and driver of local progress.
In her closing message, Engr. Irma R. Rodis, OIC-Regional Director of PhilFIDA XI & XII, expressed her gratitude to the Municipality of Alabel for its strong support and acknowledged the leadership of PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” Atienza, whose direction strengthens agency efforts nationwide. She encouraged farmers to continue in fiber production and reaffirmed PhilFIDA’s commitment to deliver responsive, farmer-centered services. Together, PhilFIDA and its provincial and municipal partners remain steadfast in advancing the fiber industry in Sarangani Province.
