Capiz, Aklan folks train on fiber prod’n

Jessa Gregorio (center) of Libacao, Aklan executes abaca decortication, a mechanized method of fiber extraction where leaf sheaths are inserted and scraped by revolving wheels. BOB JOHNSON F. GALVAN, DA

BANGA, Aklan – In response to the rising demand for abaca and piña fiber, farmers and processors in Capiz and Aklan provinces were trained on the production, processing and marketing of the products.

The Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Training Institute in Western Visayas partnered with the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority for the training and tapped experts from the Natural Fiber Resource Center of Aklan State University for updates on the current demand for fiber and their uses.

“Private businesses or traders are interested in buying bulks of fiber for processing,” said the center director Dr. Lelisa J. Teodosio. “They intend to use the fiber in the fabrication of boats and fiber glass, and they will be needing tons of it.”

Held at the ATI Training Hall from Feb. 22 to 24, the training covered lectures on the business potential of fiber and good agricultural practices, particularly on cultural management, care and maintenance, production, processing, and marketing.

The Banga Fiber Nursery and the Aklan Piña Fiber Producers Association in Balete town taught the participants about extraction and grading, and pest identification and control.

The trainees were also taken to the Handicraft of Multipurpose Cooperative and the San Ramon Abaca Handicrafts Association, both people’s organizations, for fiber product appreciation and market orientation.

The Philippines accounts for 85 percent of the global abaca fiber production.

According to the Philippines’ Abaca Fiber Market Forecast and Opportunities, the market is expected to grow at 5.7 percent yearly until 2019.

Hilly parts of Panay Island, especially in Aklan, Antique and Capiz, are sites favorable to the production of durable and good-quality abaca and piña fiber.

Training center superintendent Dr. Eden Bautista said the Institute and its partners have long been holding fiber production trainings and symposiums.

“We shall continue to equip our farmers with the necessary skills and linkages so they can benefit from this opportunity,” said Bautista. (With Jaana Tamayo, DA/PN)