Wednesday, August 20, 2008 Fida braces for 1999 int'l fiber event
THE country's fiber industry is preparing for an international event expected to boost the nation's indigenous fiber business.
Being the world's major producer, manufacturer, and exporter of abaca fiber, the country's Fiber Industry Development Authority (Fida) is getting ready for the big event next year.
The agency is expanding the production areas for abaca, a natural fiber endemic to the Philippines and which brings in million dollars in earnings to the country.
Cordillera was identified as one of the expansion areas of the abaca crop. Fida Administrator Cecilia Gloria Soriano said most of the agency's programs for abaca are concentrated in the Cordillera, given the region's climate favorable for abaca production.
Soriano said a fiber expo will be hosted by the Philippines, in celebration of the United Nation (UN)'s declaration of 2009 as the international year of natural fibers.
Philippines produces 85 percent of abaca traded in the world. Ecuador, which is growing the crop, acquired the fiber from the country, according to Soriano.
Fida-Benguet Provincial Officer Fe Donato said the towns of Buguias and Mankayan are piloted for abaca production in the province. Benguet is concentrating on cocoon production as the main source of raw silk.
The town of Natonin in Mt. Province is currently growing abaca on a 900-hectare plantation.
David Ayungo, one of the abaca traders in the town, said the fiber crop is naturally growing in Natonin. He said 30 farmers are engaged in abaca production. Last year, Ayungo said 28 tons of raw fiber was produced out of the town's plantation last year.
Ayungo said abaca growers could harvest an average of 260 grams of fiber in every stalk of the crop.
Abaca is used in cars, clothes, furniture, specialty papers, and as currency paper, among other uses. (JC)
