In a significant development partnership aimed at supporting abaca farmers, Woord en Daad, Kennemer Foods International, and Agronomika Finance Corporation have joined forces with the Department of Agrarian Reform and the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority. The partnership, which started in 2020, designed as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), is part of the SDG Partnership program initiated by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), an implementing arm of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Netherlands government.

On June 3-June 8, 2023, Eddy van Gelder and Robert van Gelder, representing Olivet, a Fats and Oil company based in the Netherlands, alongside Arjen Bulk, a Fundraising Account Officer at Woord en Daad, recently visited the Kennemer centers and operations across the Davao Region. Their visit aimed to strengthen collaboration and assess the current situation of abaca farmers and the Fiber for the Future project.

Abaca is a valuable crop in the Philippines, with its fibers widely used in various industries, including textiles, paper production, and cordage. However, abaca farmers often face challenges such as limited access to markets, pest and disease, low productivity, and vulnerability to environmental and economic fluctuations.

The partnership between these organizations demonstrates a shared commitment to supporting abaca farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. By leveraging the expertise and resources of the NGO, commercial companies, and government agencies, the partnership aims to enhance the livelihoods of abaca farmers, increase productivity, and improve the overall sustainability of the abaca industry.

During their visit, Eddy van Gelder, Robert van Gelder, and Arjen Bulk engaged with local farmers, field officers, community leaders, and stakeholders to gain insights into the challenges faced by the abaca industry. The purpose was to identify potential areas of intervention and develop further strategies for sustainable development.

The collaboration between Woord en Daad, Kennemer Foods International, Agronomika Finance Corporation, the Department of Agrarian Reform, and the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority holds great promise for the future of abaca farming in the Philippines. By combining their expertise and resources, these organizations aim to empower farmers, increase productivity, improve market access, strengthen value chains, and promote sustainable practices throughout the abaca sector.

The development partnership serves as a testament to the importance of international collaborations in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through these concerted efforts, the partners seek to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of abaca farmers, promoting economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

As the collaboration progresses, it is expected to generate valuable insights, innovative solutions, and tangible benefits for the abaca industry. By addressing the existing challenges and fostering sustainable development, the partnership aims to enhance the resilience and prosperity of abaca farmers in the Philippines for years to come.