PhilFIDA Leads the Abaca Stakeholders’ Consultation Meeting in Maasin City, Southern Leyte

Date Posted 28 September 2023

On September 28, 2023, DA Assistant Secretary Atty. Genevieve E. Velicaria-Guevarra, in her concurrent capacity as Executive Director of PhilFIDA, led the Abaca Stakeholders' Consultation Meeting in Maasin City, Southern Leyte.

"Let me emphasize that our commitment to the abaca industry is unwavering, substantiated by the fact that the Eastern Visayas Region stands as one of the country's top five (5) abaca-producing regions. With 28,218 hectares, accounting for 17.4% of its land, dedicated to cultivation, this region has been a pillar of strength for this vital industry. A notable mention goes to Northern Samar, a province that has consistently been among the top producers, contributing an average of 4,421.3 MT of fiber annually. In 2019, Northern Samar stood tall among the top five provinces that significantly contributed to abaca fiber production," said Asec. Velicaria-Guevarra.

Approximately 70 abaca farmers, exporters, processors, traders, and stakeholders attended the consultation meeting. Maasin City Mayor Nacional V. Mercado was also present and fully supported the meeting.