Abaca (Musa textilis) Production Profile of Davao Oriental

Abstract

There are 2,164 farmers cultivating 4,710.93 ha planted to abaca in the province. Banaybanay and San Isidro are the two of, the eleven municipalities of Davao Oriental that do not produce abaca. Of the 9 abaca-producing municipalities, Mati and Gov. Generoso have less than 100 has devoted to abaca production. The average age of an abaca farmer is 40.98. His household has an average number of 6 members with most still in the elementary. Mandayan people dominates abaca farming in the province followed by Cebuano’s. Though majority are full-time abaca farmers, his average annual income is very low at P26,097.87 as this is not derived solely from abaca growing. The average abaca land area is 2.02 ha located in an average of 2.49 km away from any access road. The average yield per abaca farmer was pegged at 440.51 kg/ha/yr. There are 39 fiber traders stationed in varying numbers in. different municipalities. The average price for abaca is PI 1.62/kg. The product is marketed in an "all-in" basis. Aside from fiber, there are a few womenfolk engaged in dagmay weaving which is the initial material in making bags, sandals, skirts, and the like. Male labor dominates in the abaca farming. Bigger share of male labor is hired especially during laborious operations. Radio is popular among abaca farmers.