PhilFIDA RO IV Collaborates with LGU Cavinti and Matthew Agricultural Cooperative to Conduct Hands-on Technology Transfer on Abaca Production in Brgy. Cansuso, Cavinti, Laguna

Date Posted 18 September 2023

In a collaborative effort between the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority Regional Office IV (PhilFIDA RO IV), the Local Government Unit of Cavinti, and the Matthew Agricultural Cooperative (MAC), the Training on Hands-On Technology Transfer on Abaca Production was organized on August 30-31, 2023, in Brgy. Cansuso, Cavinti, Laguna.

This two-day event brought together a diverse group of participants, all sharing a common interest in advancing abaca production in the region. Attendees included MAC officers, dedicated Cansuso farmers, representatives from the Local Government Unit of Siniloan, the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist in Quezon (OPAg Quezon), the Department of Agriculture Regional Crop Protection Center (DA RCPC), Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU), and the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist in Laguna (OPAg Laguna).

The Research Division of PhilFIDA served as the resource persons for this training, covering various topics such as the ABADDApp—an Android-based application that aids in the swift detection of abaca diseases, the LAMPARA Kit (Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification), a simple, rapid, specific, and cost-effective diagnostic test that can be performed right in the field for the detection of abaca viruses, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in Abaca Production, and Participatory Planning for Intercropping and Abaca Nursery Establishment.

Following the discussions, a live field demonstration showcasing the proper use of the LAMPARA Kit was conducted. This technology can significantly boost abaca farming productivity, providing farmers with timely information to protect their fibercrops from potential outbreaks and losses.

PhilFIDA believes that through unified efforts between government agencies, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), local authorities, and agricultural cooperatives, we can actively drive sustainable agriculture and develop pioneering solutions to address the everyday challenges faced by our local farmers, ultimately leading to a brighter future for our abaca community.