In Cebu City, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) is pushing for all fiber and fiber-based product traders to secure a government license. This initiative, highlighted by Andy Baco, the regulatory head of PhilFIDA, aims to uphold the quality standards of the fiber industry both domestically and internationally. Baco emphasized that licensing is crucial for traders to legally engage in buying and selling fiber products.
The ban on unlicensed trading is seen as a vital step towards quality control and maintaining industry standards. Baco explained that licensing would ensure that only fibers meeting specific quality criteria are exported, thereby safeguarding the reputation of Philippine fiber products on the global stage. This quality assurance can be achieved through rigorous inspections, enforcement of standards, and monitoring of licensed traders’ activities.
During the Usapang Agri radio forum, Baco elaborated on the regulatory measures, stating that farmers must deliver their inspected fiber commodities to licensed traders or exporters. PhilFIDA strictly prohibits unlicensed trading to maintain fiber quality, and traders are also required to have warehouses to store lanot or silago.
Jose Dary Locsin, head of the technical assistance unit at PhilFIDA-7, reassured fiber farmers of the agency’s support in accessing existing markets. PhilFIDA is committed to aiding farmers with planting materials, livelihood training, disease management, and other forms of assistance to enhance their livelihoods.
Locsin also highlighted PhilFIDA’s broader role in developing the fiber industry and providing market assistance to farmers, which opens up more livelihood opportunities and increases their income. He noted the significance of related sectors like fiber-based handicrafts, which are particularly prevalent in Cebu.