The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) through the Regional Office XIII, conducted a collaborative meeting with the Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT), in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur. The activity aimed to present PhilFIDA’s FY 2026 Programs, Projects, and Activities (PAPs) and explore opportunities for partnership in strengthening the fiber industry in the Caraga Region.
A highlight of the meeting was the discussion on the HIBLA Farming PS4 (Sericulture) Project. As the Sericulture Hub of Caraga, ASSCAT plays a strategic role in advancing sericulture research, technology demonstration, and capacity-building in the region. The meeting emphasized the importance of collaboration in research and development to foster innovation and enhance the competitiveness of the fiber industry.
As part of the engagement, PhilFIDA Regional Office XIII formally turned over various grades of abaca fiber requested by ASSCAT. These fiber samples will serve as instructional materials, helping students better understand fiber classification and quality standards.
Through sustained coordination and strengthened institutional partnership, PhilFIDA and ASSCAT reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting sustainable fiber production, improving farmer livelihoods, and supporting the long-term growth and competitiveness of the Philippine fiber industry.
PhilFIDA key participants included OIC-Regional Director Samuel M. Nacino Jr., Technical Assistance Unit Head Phoebe Grace Colonia, Engineer II Rene Ibarra Jr., and Fiber Development Officers Joel M. Portigo, Jay Anthony Caliso and Vincent Paul Ngilangil.
Representing ASSCAT were Ferdinand Dumalagan, Ph.D., Vice President for Research, Innovation, Development and Extension; Engr. Michael M. Sabugaa, Director for Research and Creative Works; Sarah M. Ravelo, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Agriculture; and College of Agriculture faculty members Ronald Granada and Rodrigo Bongolan, Ph.D.
