The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) is launching an initiative to encourage the production of abaca school bags in Leyte. This program aims to revitalize the regional fiber handicraft industry while providing alternative income sources for local communities. Following a successful training session for instructors in Southern Leyte, the agency plans to expand these workshops across the province. Experts from Antique were recruited to teach 25 participants essential skills, including bag design, assembly, and quality assurance. These new trainers are expected to disseminate their knowledge to other fiber-producing areas in Eastern Visayas. Southern Leyte, which produced over 1,400 metric tons of abaca in 2024, remains the primary source of the material in the region. The project is being implemented in collaboration with local government units to ensure sustainable growth for the local abaca sector.
Source : Philippine Daily Inquirer
Photo : Philippine Daily Inquirer
