Threading the Future: What's next for Philippine abaca?

<p>Can the Philippines keep its global edge in abaca as climate change, crop diseases, and rising competition reshape the industry?The Philippines is the world&#39;s leading producer of abaca—a remarkable natural fiber used in products ranging from specialty paper and tea bags to textiles, composites, and eco-friendly materials. The industry supports thousands of Filipino farmers and remains a vital contributor to rural livelihoods and exports.But with climate change, plant diseases, and intensifying global competition threatening production, what&#39;s next for one of the country&#39;s most important agricultural sectors?Before you pour your first cup of coffee on Monday, join us on Freshly Brewed, where compelling conversations brew between fascinating guests and BusinessMirror&#39;s journalist-hosts.In this episode, Arnold &quot;Ali&quot; Atienza, Executive Director of the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), sits down with Malou Talosig-Bartolome, BusinessMirror&#39;s Social Media Producer, to discuss the state of the Philippine fiber industry, the challenges confronting farmers, and the opportunities that could secure the country&#39;s leadership in the global abaca market.<br></p>