The Philippines leads global Abaca production, supplying 64% (67,388 MT) of the total. With 155,455 hectares and 126,508 farmers, Bicol, the top producing region, contributed 29% (19,839 MT) in 2021 from 33% (55,692 hectares) of the country's total Abaca area. Bicol's production grew by 3.73% in 2019 but decreased by 18% in 2020, reflecting the crop's volatile output due to weather, requiring two years to recover fully.
We dominate global abaca production, supplying approximately 63.51% of the world's needs as of 2020. But declining each year. Abaca is also grown in other Southeast Asian countries but not on a commercial scale. The Philippines' main competitors are Ecuador with 34.52% and Costa Rica with 1.17% market shares.
In Ecuador, abaca is cultivated on large estates and production is becoming increasingly mechanized. On the other hand, in the Philippines, abaca is primarily grown on smallholder farms using manual production systems, although some are starting to adopt mechanized fiber extraction processes.
To date, global abaca production totaled 106,114 metric tons, with the Philippines contributing 67,388 metric tons, while Ecuador and Costa Rica produced 36,634 and 1,242 metric tons, respectively.
The concerns raised by House of Representatives Deputy Majority Leader, Congressman Jose “Bong” Teves Jr. of TGP Partylist during the last year's budget hearing highlight significant challenges and opportunities for the Philippine Fiber Development Authority (PhilFIDA).
The inability to adequately respond to queries regarding their budget and strategic roadmap for aiding abaca farmers points to a need for more robust planning and transparency.
Given the global trend towards using polymer over abaca for making paper money, which the Philippines has also adopted, PhilFIDA must indeed rethink and diversify its strategies to support abaca farmers effectively. Here are some potential areas where PhilFIDA could focus its efforts by investing in R&D to develop new applications for abaca fibers beyond traditional uses.
This could include exploring its potential in textiles, composites and other industries. They may also Introduce modern farming techniques and technologies to increase yield, improve fiber quality, and reduce susceptibility to pests and diseases.
They can also create better programs for farmers on best practices in cultivation, harvesting and processing to improve fiber quality and yield.
PhilFIDA can also help facilitate access to financial resources, such as loans or grants, to help farmers invest in better equipment and technology, some can also be subsidized by our national government thru Department of Agriculture.
Forming partnerships with manufacturers and designers to develop and promote abaca-based products, particularly in the fashion and textile industries. By working closely with other government agencies and non-governmental organizations to create a supportive ecosystem for abaca farmers.
They may also promote sustainable farming practices that protect the environment and ensure the long-term viability of abaca cultivation.
Sustainability and environmental protection are core principles that Deputy Majority Leader Cong. Bong Teves and the TGP Partylist stand by. Embracing these principles is crucial in today's world, where the impact of human activities on the environment is increasingly apparent.
By upholding sustainability and environmental protection as core principles, individuals and organizations like Cong. Bong Teves and the TGP Partylist can play a significant role in driving positive change and contributing to a more sustainable future for current and future generations.
Their commitment to these principles can inspire others to take action and work towards a more harmonious relationship with the environment.
By addressing these areas, PhilFIDA can help ensure that abaca farmers have access to better markets and can benefit from the growing global demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials. This strategic approach would not only support the livelihood of abaca farmers but also position the Philippines as a leader in the production of high-quality abaca products.
The introduction and adoption of new technologies in farming and processing by the PhilFIDA can indeed be transformative for abaca farmers, fostering a more sustainable environment and enhancing their income. This, in turn, can contribute to the overall economic development of their localities.
PhilFIDA can also seek assistance to the Department of Agriculture (DA) to implement automated and efficient irrigation systems to optimize water usage, especially crucial during prolonged dry spells. DA can also develop and distribute abaca varieties that are resistant to common pests and diseases, reducing crop losses and increasing yields.
PhilFIDA can introduce new and advanced decorticators to efficiently extract fibers from abaca plants, improving fiber quality and reducing manual labor.
Adopting environmentally friendly processing methods that minimize waste and reduce the environmental footprint.
To encourage the development of value-added products such as abaca-based textiles, composites, and biodegradable packaging materials.
Promoting organic farming practices that enhance soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem stability, leading to more resilient Integrating abaca farming with other trees and crops to create a more diverse and sustainable agricultural system that provides multiple sources of income.
Collaboration between the PhilFIDA and the DA, under the leadership of Secretary Francis “Kiko” Tiu, could indeed be beneficial for the development of the abaca industry and the welfare of abaca farmers.
Secretary Tiu's background as a successful entrepreneur with experience in the agricultural business could bring valuable insights and expertise to the table, especially in addressing the infrastructure needs of farmers, such as Road Networks, Improving and expanding road networks in rural areas to facilitate the transportation of abaca products and other agricultural products to markets, reducing transportation costs and post-harvest losses.
By leveraging Secretary Tiu's experience and understanding of the importance of rural infrastructure for farmers, PhilFIDA and the DA can work together to create a more supportive environment for abaca farmers. This collaboration has the potential to enhance the competitiveness of the abaca industry, improve livelihoods in rural communities, and contribute to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in the Philippines.
By focusing on these areas, PhilFIDA can help abaca farmers transition to more sustainable and profitable farming practices. This not only boosts their individual incomes but also stimulates economic growth in their communities, creating a ripple effect that benefits the broader local economy.
The integration of technology and sustainable practices is key to building a resilient and prosperous future for the abaca industry in the Philippines.
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