Pwersa Balita

PhilFIDA Joins Northern Samar Kauswagan Caravan

May 26, 2026 1.3K

Farmers in Northern Samar received fresh hope as government agencies brought planting materials, agricultural support, and livelihood opportunities directly to their communities through a province-wide outreach activity focused on rural development and sustainability.

The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority joined the Provincial Government of Northern Samar’s “Kauswagan Caravan” as part of its continuing efforts to strengthen partnerships with local government units and support the growth of the country’s abaca industry.

The activity was carried out through PhilFIDA Regional Office VIII – Northern Samar Provincial Office under the guidance of Executive Director Arnold I. Atienza. The caravan was led on the ground by Provincial Fiber Officer Renato Puaso Jr. together with Fiber Development Officer Kenneth Dupan.

During the event, PhilFIDA distributed free abaca planting materials and Information, Education, and Communication materials to beneficiaries in different communities. The agency said the initiative aims to help strengthen the rehabilitation and expansion of abaca farming in the province.

Abaca, known globally as Manila hemp, is one of the Philippines’ major agricultural export products and is widely used in making ropes, specialty paper, handicrafts, and eco-friendly materials. The country remains one of the world’s leading producers of abaca fiber, with many farming communities depending on the industry for income and livelihood.

Northern Samar is among the provinces with strong potential for abaca production because of its climate and agricultural landscape. However, local farmers continue to face challenges such as plant diseases, typhoons, and limited access to resources and markets.

PhilFIDA officials said providing quality planting materials is important in helping farmers improve productivity and restore damaged abaca farms. The agency also emphasized the value of educating communities about proper farm management and sustainable production practices.

According to PhilFIDA, the Kauswagan Caravan also serves as a platform for stronger collaboration between government agencies and local communities. Officials said combining programs and resources can help create more opportunities for rural development and economic growth.

The initiative is supervised by PhilFIDA Regional Office VIII under Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Joseph S. Salas. The agency added that its participation reflects its continuing commitment to uplifting the socio-economic condition of farming communities through agricultural development programs.

The activity also supports the broader goals of the Department of Agriculture under Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in promoting rural empowerment, agricultural modernization, and food security.

For many farmers in Northern Samar, the caravan provided more than just planting materials. It also delivered encouragement and renewed confidence that government support can help communities recover, grow, and build sustainable livelihoods through agriculture.

Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News
#PhilFIDA, #AbacaIndustry, #NorthernSamar, #RuralDevelopment, #BagongPilipinas

Recent BALITA