In support of the vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the directives of Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. to modernize Philippine agriculture, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) conducted the turnover of 30 units of Modified Abaca Spindle Stripping Machines to 14 qualified farmer organizations during a ceremony held at the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.
The activity was led by Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, together with Technical Assistance Division Chief Manolito F. Apalla and OIC-Regional Director Samuel M. Nacino Jr. of PhilFIDA Regional Office XIII. Joining the event were Acting Provincial Governor Manuel O. Alameda Sr., Lianga Mayor Dr. Amado M. Layno Jr., SP Committee Chair on Agriculture Valerio T. Montesclaros, Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council Chair Christopher H. Lindo, Regional Executive Director Ricardo M. Oñate Jr., Provincial Agriculturist Esmeraldo S. Raymundo, and representatives from the different Municipal Agriculture Offices of Surigao del Sur.
The turnover underscores PhilFIDA’s continuing commitment to advancing the mechanization of abaca fiber production by providing appropriate technologies that improve the efficiency of fiber extraction, enhance fiber quality, and increase the productivity and income of abaca farmers. The initiative also reflects the strong partnership between PhilFIDA and the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur in delivering vital support directly to farmer organizations and strengthening the province’s abaca value chain.
As the Philippines continues to be the world’s leading producer of abaca, PhilFIDA remains committed to empowering farming communities through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable interventions that will further enhance the competitiveness of the Philippine natural fiber industry.
