The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) is stepping up efforts to enhance abaca fiber production in Northern Mindanao by distributing spindle stripping machines to local farmer cooperatives. PhilFIDA’s Executive Director Arnold Atienza highlighted that this initiative, which began last week with the distribution of 12 machines in Cagayan de Oro City, is expected to improve both fiber quality and farmers’ incomes.
Each machine can process 60 to 90 kilograms of high-quality abaca fiber daily, making possible annual output of up to 300,000 kg of enhanced fiber. The machines will be sent to 12 cooperatives across five provinces: Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Bukidnon. This is aimed at increasing regional competitiveness.
Currently, Northern Mindanao produces 5,605 metric tons of abaca fiber annually, supporting over 6,300 farmers across 7,855 hectares. PhilFIDA plans to distribute 300 more spindle stripping machines this year as part of efforts to halt the decline in local abaca production, which dropped by 4% in 2024. Additionally, PhilFIDA aims to reduce the importation of abaca fiber, addressing the challenge of farmers earning as little as P2,500 to P3,500 per month.
The agency is also exploring legal avenues to control abaca imports and strengthen its marketing authority, potentially through an Executive Order. Despite current challenges, PhilFIDA remains hopeful that these initiatives will revitalize the industry and improve farmer livelihoods.
