President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called for the advancement and promotion of the Philippine fibercrop industry to drive economic growth and provide livelihood opportunities.

In his message sent to the 2023 National Fibercrops Summit on Tuesday, Marcos urged the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) to continue providing support to seize new opportunities for the development of the fiber sector.

“I therefore urge the PhilFIDA to remain steadfast in utilizing its mission of providing research, production, education, and trade regulation support so that the fiber industry can take advantage of new avenues for development and growth,” he said.

“As we stand at the crossroads of agricultural innovation, let this summit be a testament to our shared commitment to shaping a resilient and flourishing future for your industry. I trust that this gathering will be a conducive platform where ideas flourish, collaborations thrive, and the seeds sown today blossom into a harvest of success for our nation.”

Marcos expressed hope that with the combined efforts of government, growers, farmers associations, and the private sector, the country could usher in a “new era of growth and development in the agriculture sector toward national progress.”

He also pledged that the government would continue to work hard to uplift the lives of Filipino farmers and advance economic prosperity in rural communities.

An attached agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA), PhilFIDA is responsible for promoting the accelerated growth and development of the fiber industry in the Philippines, such as abaca (Manila hemp) and cotton.

PhilFIDA organized this year’s summit at the DA – Bureau of Soils and Water Management convention hall in Diliman, Quezon City to discuss possible solutions besetting the fibercrop industry.

The summit aims to address implementation challenges facing the fibercrop industry that encompass a wide spectrum of issues, including fiber quality, market demand, quality standards, and trade regulations.

This year’s summit carries the theme, “HIBLA BIDA!!!,” focusing on priority fibercrops, including abaca, cotton, piña, salago, and silk. (PNA)