The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), led by Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, together with Regional Director Samuel M. Nacino Jr. and Chief of the Technical Assistance Division Manolito F. Apalla, paid a courtesy visit to the Research Office of Agusan del Sur State University headed by Research Director Dr. Michael M. Sabugaa, on June 17, 2026.
The meeting strengthened the partnership between PhilFIDA and ADDSU as both institutions reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and accelerating the development of the Philippine fiber industry through research, technology, and capacity-building initiatives.
A key highlight of the collaboration is the PS4 Mulberry Project, which includes the establishment of a 2-hectare mulberry farm and one silkworm rearing house. The two institutions also discussed future capacity-building activities on fiber production and value-added product development. The PhilFIDA delegation likewise evaluated ADDSU’s proprietary Abaca Knotting Technology developed by Engr. Remuel Maca. Recognizing its potential to improve efficiency and productivity in abaca processing, Executive Director Atienza expressed his commitment to personally assist in expediting the technology’s patent application.
Through strengthened partnerships with academic institutions, PhilFIDA continues to promote innovation and sustainable technologies for the natural fiber industry. These efforts support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push to modernize Philippine agriculture and Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.’s goal of building a resilient and globally competitive agriculture sector.
