A Socio-Economic Study of the Present Condition of Abaca Farmers in Bato, Catanduanes

Abstract

Abaca industry in the country is seen to be in an improving condition with the existing high local and international demands for the products of abaca. Abaca farming is also seen to be a fortunate livelihood given the vast lands planted by abaca and the sustainability of abaca farming. But majority of abaca farmers are impoverished. They, who are the primary producers of the fiber that makes many proprietors earn large profit, are also the main sector that makes the abaca industry alive. However, they are not given the just compensation for the big contribution they make in the industry. There are efforts of the government to alleviate abaca farmers from poverty but still these are not enough. These do not response to the farmers call for higher abaca prices. The poor and oppressed abaca farmers do not remain silent amidst their underprivileged situation. A continuing and expanding struggle of abaca farmers fight for their economic interests.