Tacloban: The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) regional office is championing the production of abaca bags as a new livelihood opportunity in Leyte provinces, aiming to rejuvenate fiber-based crafts in the area.

According to Philippines News Agency, PhilFIDA Eastern Visayas Regional Director Joseph Salas announced that a training of trainers for school bag production was successfully completed in Southern Leyte from September 1 to 4, with plans to extend the training to Leyte from September 8 to 11. Salas emphasized that the training aims to not only enhance participants' skills in creating abaca products but also to establish a network of trainers capable of disseminating these skills throughout Leyte and Eastern Visayas.

Experts from Antique were brought in to guide the 25 trainers through the various stages of abaca school bag production, encompassing design, assembly, finishing, and quality control. The trainers were able to produce durable and functional school bags using locally sourced abaca twine.

The initiative has resulted in a new pool of trainers who can facilitate skills development within fiber-producing communities, supported by local government units. This effort aligns with the Department of Agriculture's broader strategy, led by Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold Atienza, to bolster the Philippine abaca industry and create livelihood opportunities through value addition.

Salas highlighted the training's role in illustrating the potential of transforming abaca twine into marketable and environmentally friendly products, showcasing natural fibers' ability to generate income while fostering sustainable community-based enterprises.

Southern Leyte leads abaca production in Eastern Visayas, having yielded 1,457 metric tons in 2024. Leyte follows as the third-largest producer with an output of 606.16 metric tons. Abaca, or Manila hemp, plays a crucial economic role in the region.