Camille Villar pledges stronger support for abaca industry in Catanduanes visit

Senatorial candidate Camille Villar vowed to push for greater support for the country’s abaca industry during a campaign swing through Catanduanes, the Philippines’ — and the world’s — top producer of the prized natural fiber.
In a dialogue with local leaders and farmers, Villar lauded the province’s success in keeping its abaca industry alive and thriving. “Congratulations on being the world’s top producer of abaca. Your economy and your livelihoods are thriving because of your hard work and world-class product,” she said. “We are proud that the world’s strongest fiber is made right here in Catanduanes.”
Villar emphasized that boosting agriculture, strengthening local industries, and expanding job opportunities are critical to building a stronger economy. She stressed that abaca farmers deserve greater support, including fair prices for their products and government programs to help sustain the industry’s global dominance.
Catanduanes currently boasts 36,853 hectares of abaca plantations, cultivated by around 15,000 abaca farmers, according to the Department of Agriculture.
“We must continue to invest in agriculture and uplift our abaca farmers,” Villar said. “This is not just Catanduanes’ pride — it is the pride of the whole Philippines. I am committed to ensuring that our farmers, and the entire Bicol Region, get the support they deserve.”
Villar’s visit to Catanduanes highlights her broader advocacy for rural development, agricultural growth, and stronger support for Filipino industries on the global stage.