Philfida VIII, Eastern Visayas

24/08/2026

𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐑𝐎 𝐕𝐈𝐈𝐈 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦 𝐓𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞-𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐅𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐚 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫-𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐠 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲

CALBAYOG CITY, SAMAR — The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Regional Office VIII distributed farm tools to abaca farmers who participated in the season-long Climate-Smart Field School (CSFS) for Abaca Production and Technology in Calbayog City, Samar.

The distribution of farm tools serves as PhilFIDA’s continuing support to farmers who actively engaged in the hands-on learning activities of the CSFS, aimed at strengthening their knowledge and skills in climate-smart, sustainable, and productive abaca farming.
Throughout the season-long field school, participating farmers were exposed to practical technologies and improved farming practices covering abaca production, farm management, climate-resilient practices, pest and disease management, safe use of farm inputs, proper harvesting, fiber extraction, and post-harvest handling.

The farm tools are expected to help the beneficiaries apply the technologies and practices they learned during the field school and improve the efficiency of their farm operations.

PhilFIDA RO VIII, under the leadership of Regional Director Joseph S. Salas, through the Technical Assistance Unit Headed by Engineer Jonathan Meode Reambonanza continues to promote farmer-centered programs that enhance the productivity, resilience, and competitiveness of the abaca industry in Eastern Visayas.

The initiative is also aligned with the thrust of PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza to strengthen technology adoption and provide practical interventions that directly benefit fiber farmers. It supports the broader agricultural modernization agenda of Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., particularly in building a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.

The completion of the Climate-Smart Field School marks another important step in empowering abaca farmers—not only by providing them with tools, but also by equipping them with knowledge and technologies that can help them respond to the challenges of climate change and improve their livelihoods.

Through initiatives such as the CSFS, PhilFIDA RO VIII remains committed to working closely with farmers and local government partners in advancing a stronger, climate-resilient, and sustainable abaca industry in Eastern Visayas.

24/08/2026

𝐂𝐋𝐈𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐄-𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐅𝐈𝐄𝐋𝐃 𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐋 – 𝐒𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 8

𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞-𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐚 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬-𝐎𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠

The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), under the leadership of Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, and in support of the agricultural development agenda of Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., continues to strengthen the capacity of abaca farmers through the Climate-Smart Field School (CSFS).

The CSFS recently conducted its Session 8, focusing on critical aspects of safe and sustainable abaca production, including the proper use of pesticides, responsible waste management, improved harvesting and fiber extraction techniques, and appropriate post-harvest handling.

The session featured John Mar L. Nosura, Agriculturist II, who discussed the importance of proper pesticide handling and waste disposal. Participants were trained on the safe handling and application of pesticides, the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), appropriate storage and transportation, and responsible disposal of pesticide containers and other farm wastes. These practices are essential in protecting farmers, consumers, and the environment while promoting safer and more responsible agricultural production.

Meanwhile, Engr. Kristelle Ahn C. Suñer, Engineer II, and Engr. I. Linao, Engineer I, facilitated the technical sessions on abaca harvesting, tuxying, fiber extraction and stripping, and post-harvest handling.

Participants were introduced to the proper harvesting of mature abaca stalks and demonstrated the extraction of fiber using both the traditional stripping knife and mechanical stripping machine. The technical discussions were complemented by hands-on exercises that allowed the farmer-students to apply the knowledge and skills they acquired during the classroom sessions.

Among the practical activities conducted were:

Harvesting of mature abaca stalks;
Tuxying exercise;
Manual stripping using a stripping knife;
Operation of a mechanical stripping machine; and
Proper drying, sorting, and handling of extracted abaca fibers.

The combination of classroom instruction, demonstration, and hands-on practicum provided the participants with practical knowledge that can help improve farm productivity, fiber quality, occupational safety, and post-harvest management.

The conduct of the CSFS reflects PhilFIDA’s continuing commitment, under the leadership of Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, to modernize the fiber industry and empower farmers with appropriate technologies and climate-smart practices. It also supports DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr.’s thrust of advancing a more productive, resilient, sustainable, and competitive agricultural sector.

More importantly, the session reinforced a fundamental principle in abaca production: producing world-class abaca fiber begins in the farm. Proper farm management, safe working practices, timely harvesting, efficient fiber extraction, and careful post-harvest handling all contribute to producing high-quality fiber that can meet the demands of both domestic and international markets.

Through initiatives such as the Climate-Smart Field School, PhilFIDA continues to invest in the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of Filipino fiber farmers, helping build a stronger, more resilient, and sustainable abaca industry for the future.

21/08/2026

𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐕𝐈𝐈𝐈 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐚 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐬

The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Regional Office VIII, under the leadership of Regional Director Joseph S. Salas, continues to bring appropriate technologies closer to abaca-growing communities in Eastern Visayas with the turn-over of one (1) unit of Abaca Spindle Stripping Machine to a farmer organization in Brgy. Odiong, Javier, Leyte on August 20, 2026.

The activity supports the continuing efforts of the Department of Agriculture, under the leadership of Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., and PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, to strengthen the productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness of the Philippine abaca industry through appropriate mechanization and technology.

The turn-over ceremony was attended by Hon. Michael Dragon T. Javier, Municipal Mayor of Javier, Leyte, together with Hon. Marino C. Merilo, SB on Agriculture, Mr. Marvin L. Gozon, OIC-Municipal Agriculturist, PhilFIDA personnel, and representatives of the beneficiary association.

In his message, Regional Director Joseph S. Salas reaffirmed PhilFIDA's commitment to supporting abaca farmers and organizations in Leyte by providing technologies that can improve fiber processing and enhance farmers' productivity and livelihood opportunities.

Following the ceremonial turn-over and signing of the acknowledgment receipt, Engr. Romel A. Linao conducted an actual demonstration on the operation and maintenance of the Abaca Spindle Stripping Machine, providing the beneficiaries with practical knowledge on its proper and safe use.

The activity concluded with a closing remarks from Engr. Jonathan M. Reambonanza, OIC-Technical Assistance Unit.

Through continued technology assistance and strong partnerships with local governments and farmer organizations, PhilFIDA VIII remains committed to modernizing abaca processing, empowering farmers, and building a stronger and more competitive abaca industry in Eastern Visayas.

20/08/2026

19/08/2026

𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐕𝐈𝐈𝐈 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐚 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐨, 𝐇𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐬, 𝐋𝐞𝐲𝐭𝐞

19/08/2026

𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐕𝐈𝐈𝐈 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐚 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐨, 𝐇𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐬, 𝐋𝐞𝐲𝐭𝐞

The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Regional Office VIII, under the leadership of OIC Regional Director Joseph S. Salas, through the Technical Assistance Unit headed by Engr. Jonathan M. Reambonanza, conducted the Ceremonial Turn-Over of an Abaca Spindle Stripping Machine on August 19, 2026, at Barangay San Antonio, Hilongos, Leyte.

The activity supports the continuing efforts of the Department of Agriculture, under the leadership of Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., and PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza, to strengthen the Philippine fiber industry through appropriate technologies and improved processing capabilities.

The activity was highlighted by the presence and strong support of Municipal Mayor Hon. Manuel B. Villahermosa, whose participation underscored the commitment of the Hilongos local government to the development of abaca farming, particularly in its far-flung and mountainous communities. Municipal Agriculturist Ms. Analie B. Maike and her team likewise provided valuable support in the conduct of the activity.

In his message, PhilFIDA Regional Director Joseph S. Salas reaffirmed PhilFIDA's unwavering support for the abaca industry and abaca farmers of Hilongos, Leyte, emphasizing the importance of bringing appropriate technologies and technical assistance closer to farming communities, including those in remote areas.

The program included an overview of the spindle stripping machine presented by Engr. Jonathan M. Reambonanza, followed by the ceremonial turn-over of the equipment. After the turn-over, Engr. Reambonanza conducted an actual demonstration on the proper operation and maintenance of the machine, providing the recipients with practical knowledge for its safe, proper, and efficient use.

The activity was facilitated by Romeo I. Prado, Fiber Development Officer II, in collaboration with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Hilongos, led by Ms. Analie B. Maike, and in coordination with the Barangay officials led by Punong Barangay Francisco Perido.

The provision of the spindle stripping machine is expected to improve fiber extraction efficiency, reduce processing time and labor requirements, and help increase the productivity of local abaca farmers and processors.

PhilFIDA Regional Office VIII remains committed to ensuring that no abaca-growing community is left behind, bringing technology, technical assistance, and development support even to the most remote farming communities of Eastern Visayas.

18/08/2026

Sama-sama tungo sa mas maunlad na PhilFIDA!

The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Region VIII successfully conducted its Presentation of the FY 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP) and Target Setting cm FY 2026 Regional Mid-Year Assessment on August 13–14, 2026 at LaYao Beach Resort, Marabut, Samar.

The two-day activity provided an avenue for the Regional Office team to assess the January–June 2026 accomplishments, review financial performance, present the FY 2027 NEP and targets, discuss updates on locally funded projects, and address various administrative and operational matters.

The activity also featured a re-echo on the New Government Procurement Act (RA No. 12009) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, an open forum, and the presentation of directives from Joseph S. Salas, OIC Regional Director.

The gathering likewise recognized the dedication and loyalty of personnel who have reached 10 years of government service, highlighting the importance of commitment and teamwork in fulfilling PhilFIDA’s mandate.

More than an assessment, the activity served as a venue to celebrate accomplishments, identify areas for improvement, align targets, and strengthen teamwork as PhilFIDA Region VIII moves forward in advancing the Philippine fiber industry.

PhilFIDA Region VIII extends its sincere appreciation to Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza for his continued support and guidance, and to Technical Assistance Division Chief Manolito F. Apalla for providing the funding support that helped make this important regional activity possible.

Your support reflects a shared commitment to strengthening our regional operations and further advancing the development of the Philippine fiber industry.

17/08/2026

Happy Birthday Sir Ariel Ariel C. Cinco

May your special day be filled with happiness, good health, and countless blessings. May God continue to guide you, strengthen you, and bless you with wisdom and success as you pursue your endeavors.

Wishing you more meaningful years, joyful moments with family and friends, and greater achievements ahead.

Have a wonderful and blessed birthday, Sir Ariel! 🥳🎈

15/08/2026

𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐕𝐈𝐈𝐈 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞-𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐅𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐠 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲

PhilFIDA Regional Office VIII, under the leadership of OIC Regional Director Joseph S. Salas, continues to strengthen the capacities of abaca farmers through the Climate-Smart Field School (CSFS) on Abaca Production, in support of the Department of Agriculture under Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. and PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza

The seventh session focused on Desuckering and Abaca Mat Management, Diversified Farming, Abaca-Based Agroforestry, and Climate-Resilient Agricultural Practices, Provincial Fiber Officer Alquin V. Uy served as resource person, providing practical guidance on proper desuckering and maintaining healthy abaca mats, followed by an actual field practicum and farm planning workshop.

Meanwhile, Reynaldo H. Comota of CENRO Calbayog until discussed climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies for sustainable livelihoods. Participants also presented their Agro-Ecosystem Analysis (AESA), receiving technical feedback and recommendations to improve their farm decision-making.

Through hands-on learning and practical application, CSFS continues to equip farmers with knowledge and skills for productive, diversified, sustainable, and climate-resilient abaca farms.