I.

Introduction

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Abaca, also known as Manila hemp, is a valuable commodity derived

from the fibers of (Musa textiles) plant. It is a versatile fiber crop, that is
indigenous to the Philippines and is primarily used in the production of high
– quality ropes, cordage, and textiles. (FAO, 2018) Abaca is known for its
durability, strength, and eco-friendly properties. Abaca is considered one of
the strongest natural fibers, which is used in various industries, making it a
highly sought after material in the production, ropes, bags, carpets, paper,
handicrafts, and other products. The Philippines has been a major producer
and exporter of abaca for decades, contributing significantly to the country’s
economy and employment opportunities. (PSA,2019) Despite it’s economic
importance, the abaca industry faces several challenges that hinder it’s
sustainable growth and development. The declining productivity and quality
of abaca fibers due to the factors, the susceptibility of abaca plants to
disease and pest, such as the abaca bunchy top virus, (BTV) and abaca
mosaic virus, (ABrMV) which significantly reduce yields and lower quality of
fibers, and increased production cost, lack of financial capability of abaca
farmers, fluctuations in market demand, and lack of efficient post- harvest
technologies are additional issues that effect the sustainability and
profitability of abaca farming.

According to the study by Gene señeris (2024), the abaca industry

in the Philippines is facing challenges related to pest and disease
management, well as market unpredictability, which require innovative
solution to ensure the long-term viability of abaca production. Lack of
technologies and support from the government. In report by LC Galvez
(2020), the abaca mosaic disease was first observed in the Philippines. The
outdated cultivation practices and limited access to improve planting
material have been identified as key factors contributing to the decline in
abaca productivity and quality. However the study conducted in (2019), by
the department of agriculture Bureau of agricultural Research (DA-BAR), the
government has been support the abaca by providing technologies,
enhancing the quality of abaca products, and promoting market access for
abaca farmers. furthermore Barquilla Clarb B. (2022), highlighted through
this (Phil FIDA), conduct the abaca disease control, eradication, and
sustainable agricultural practices to enhance abaca production and quality.

Abaca industry is the limited availability of disease-resistant abaca

varieties. Developing abaca cultivars that exhibit high resistance to
prevalent diseases could help mitigate the impact of pest and diseases on
abaca yields, thereby ensuring a stable supply of quality fibers for various
industries. The labor- intensive nature of abaca cultivation and processing.
Harvesting abaca fibers involves manual labor, as the fibers are extracted
from the leaf sheaths of the plant through a laborious stripping process. The
labor intensity contributes to high production costs and limits the scalability
of abaca cultivation, especially in region where labor is scarce or expensive.
Furthermore, the lack of sustainable practices in abaca farming poses a
threat to the environment and the long-term viability of the industry.

The purpose of this study is to investigate and develop disease-resistant

abaca cultivars through innovative breeding techniques and genetic
selection method. (SW Saragih, 2018), By addressing the gap in disease
resistance among abaca varieties , this study aims to enhance the resilience
and sustainability of abaca cultivation, leading to increase productivity and
profitability for abaca farmers. This study seeks to contribute to the
advancement of the industry and promote innovation in abaca products. By
proposing solution to the identified problems, provide guidance for policy
makers, industry stakeholders, and researchers interested in promoting
sustainable fiber production and the integration of abaca into the textile
industry. Ultimately, the environmentally conscious and socially responsible
textile industry while ensuring the economic viability of abaca farmers and
producers.
.

THE ABACA COMMODITY SYSTEM

AILEEN BARTOLOME- GIDUCOS

Instructor:

Leader: JERONICA HIDALGO

Member: RUZEL DURANGO

KIM BRYAN GADIA