Bigger Opportunities for Misamis Oriental Farmers

Abaca’s Next Chapter: Growing 

COURTESY: PIA Misamis Oriental

Clean Planting Materials, Stronger Farms

Abaca facility to expand planting material, value-adding opportunities for Misamis Oriental farmers is the goal behind the planned revival of the province’s idle Abaca Tissue Culture Laboratory. Through a new agreement, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) and the provincial government will repair and operate the facility.

As a result, farmers can access disease-free planting materials that meet health standards. This can reduce disease risks while making abaca planting more reliable and productive.

Turning Fiber Into Bigger Earnings

However, the plan goes beyond planting. PhilFIDA also wants farmers and their families to explore processing, product development, and stronger market connections. This matters because selling raw fiber alone can limit farmers’ earnings.

For instance, PhilFIDA plans to train farmers’ spouses to produce abaca bags that could sell for around P1,200 each. Meanwhile, local and international market connections could create even more opportunities.

Building a Value-Added Industry

Furthermore, Misamis Oriental Governor Juliette T. Uy said the province will explore machinery and processing facilities for products such as abaca plywood. Instead of depending mainly on raw fiber sales, farmers could benefit from products with greater market value.

At the same time, farmers and cooperatives are encouraged to organize and undergo training. With the right technology, skills, and financing, expanded abaca production could generate additional livelihood opportunities.

A Bigger Future for Farmers

Ultimately, the initiative aims to ensure farmers receive a larger share of abaca’s economic value. Sugbongcogon Mayor Cheezee Salvador Lagbas also sees the project as an important opportunity for agricultural innovation and family livelihoods.

Most importantly, PhilFIDA says its support will extend beyond the laboratory. By helping farmers from planting through processing and finished products, Misamis Oriental can build a stronger and more profitable abaca industry.

Revitalizing Abaca Industry: DOLE-Caraga’s P5.4M Livelihood Grant to Abaca Farmers in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur

SOURCE: PIA CARAGA

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga has recently embarked on a transformative initiative that promises to uplift the lives of the abaca farmers in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. This massive project involves a livelihood grant of P5.4 million distributed among 12 abaca farmer associations, setting a new chapter in the local abaca industry.

The livelihood grant, part of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), covers farm machinery and business capital among others, primarily benefiting indigenous farmers. The program is a concerted effort to enhance livelihoods by improving and hastening abaca fiber production in the town, thereby increasing yield and creating better market opportunities for the local product.

The role of the local government, the Philippine Army, and other stakeholders has been pivotal in the implementation of this program. Appreciating their efforts, the Provincial Director of DOLE - Surigao del Sur, Genebelle Bal, acknowledges their vital contribution.

Twelve abaca associations in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, have been the beneficiaries of this livelihood grant, with most of the members being indigenous people who rely on abaca farming as their primary source of livelihood.

Bonito Bocales, the Tribal Abaca Farmers Association chairperson and a tribal chieftain, expressed immense gratitude for the program implementation. The introduction of stripping machines and assistance in document preparation has brought about noticeable improvements in productivity and efficiency.

Before the distribution of machinery, each member underwent comprehensive training on financial literacy, health education, workers' basic rights, and an overview of the DILP program. Specialized training on the efficient operation of the machinery was also provided.

With the mechanical equipment, it is anticipated that the production of abaca in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, will be more efficient and productive, leading to increased income for the abaca farmers and a boost in industry production.

The twelve abaca farmer associations given this grant include a diverse range of groups. Each association has a unique story to tell, and now, with this grant, they'll have the means to write their next chapter of productivity and growth.

The Philippines, according to the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), is the world's largest producer of abaca fibers, supplying about 87 percent of the global requirement. From cordage and specialty papers to textiles, furniture and fixtures, handicrafts, novelty items, and industrial applications, abaca fibers have a wide range of uses.

In 2022, Caraga ranked third among the top abaca-producing regions in the country, with an estimated 10,000 metric tons of fiber production. Surigao del Sur, in particular, has reported a total of 24 abaca farmers and traders contributing to this promising industry. 

This initiative by DOLE-Caraga is a significant step towards promoting sustainable livelihoods for the abaca farmers in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. It is a testament to the potential of concerted efforts and strategic investment to create lasting change in the lives of the local farming community and the larger abaca industry.