The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), under the leadership of Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, through its Regional Satellite Office VI headed by OIC-Regional Director Mary Ann G. Nerio and the Fiber Utilization and Technology Division, headed by Engr. Ramil B. Barcelona, conducted a Training on the Operation and Maintenance of the Combined Slitter-Presser Machine for Bariw Leaves on February 18–19, 2026 in Libertad and Pandan, Antique.
The activity brought together local weavers, associations, cooperatives, and LGU representatives for actual field testing of the machine to assess its productivity and durability under real working conditions.
The new technology is expected to make the slitting and pressing of bariw leaves faster and less labor-intensive, helping increase fiber production, reduce physical strain, and improve product quality to enhance income opportunities for local communities.
