Manila, April 4 -- Eastern Visayas recorded 2,938 metric tons (MT) of abaca fiber production in 2024, up by 24 percent from the actual yield a year earlier, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) reported Friday.

Known globally as Manila hemp, abaca is processed into cordage, pulp, specialty paper, and fibercrafts, including handwoven fabric.

Wilardo Sinahon, PhilFIDA Eastern Visayas regional director, said last year's output was a remarkable growth from the 2,450.49 metric tons of abaca fiber produced in 2023.

"This significant improvement highlights the region's growing capacity to meet the rising demand for abaca fiber, driven by effective disease management, enhanced production support services, and the acti...