In the picturesque municipality of Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, a group of determined women is weaving a story of resilience, innovation, and empowerment. The Kababayenhan Alang sa Malamboong Panginabuhian (KAMAANAN) has become a beacon of hope for rural communities engaged in abaca production, thanks to the transformative support of the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP).
For years, KAMAANAN relied on manual methods to process abaca fiber—a labor-intensive practice that limited productivity and quality. But change arrived in the form of DA-PRDP interventions, which introduced the group to advanced technology and capacity-building initiatives. With the provision of stripping machines and targeted training programs, KAMAANAN has elevated its production standards, producing high-quality abaca fiber that meets market demands.
“Sa wala pa ang DA-PRDP, ang mga proseso sa KAMAANAN mano-mano ra gyud. Karon nga nakadawat sila og stripping machine, nilambo ilang produksiyon sa abaca,” said Catalino M. Segismar Jr., Assistant Provincial Agriculturist of Surigao del Sur. (Before DA-PRDP’s support, KAMAANAN’s processes were all manual. Now that they have stripping machines, their production has improved.)
Through these innovations, the women of KAMAANAN not only enhanced the classification and quality of their abaca products but also established themselves as a model for other women-led groups in the region. Their story underscores the power of equipping local communities with the right tools and knowledge to unlock their potential.
The success of KAMAANAN exemplifies DA-PRDP’s commitment to empowering rural communities through sustainable livelihoods and gender-inclusive development. For Catalino, the group’s achievements symbolize a brighter future for women in agriculture. “Daghan kabag-ohan tungod sa suporta sa DA-PRDP. Ang KAMAANAN nahimong modelo sa kababayenhan sa abaca production,” he shared. (There have been significant changes thanks to DA-PRDP’s support. KAMAANAN has become a model for women engaged in abaca production.)
PRDP Voices continues to showcase these inspiring narratives from Mindanao, celebrating the partnerships and innovations that uplift rural lives and promote inclusive growth. For the women of KAMAANAN, their journey is far from over—it’s only the beginning of a more prosperous and empowered future.