SPDA inks pact with a Polomolok cooperative for Pina Fiber Production

DAVAO CITY (13 February 2025) – The Southern Philippines Development Authority (SPDA) has finally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today with Polo Samahang Nayon Multi-Purpose Cooperative (Polo SN MPC) in pursuance to the implementation of SPDA’s Pina Fiber Production Project in Polomolok, South Cotabato.

SPDA is represented by Administrator & Chief Executive Officer Abdulghani ‘Gerry’ Ajul Salapuddin and Deputy Administrator Munap H. Pacio, while Polo SN MPC is represented by the cooperative’s Chairperson Rolando B. Demetillo and General Manager Karen Mae Daguro.

The internal organizational concerns of the initially identified implementing partner in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, had compelled SPDA to relocate the project site to Polomolok where substantial source of raw pineapple leaves is available at no cost for processing to fiber.

During the MOA signing before the officials and technical staff of the Authority in Davao City and some Polo SN MPC officials, SPDA Administrator Gerry Salapuddin had disclosed SPDA is a government-owned and controlled corporation and is attached to the Office of the President.

He said the Authority is mandated to pursue peace and development efforts in Mindanao and is obliged to generate economic activities through sustainable livelihood projects for the people.

“This business partnership showcases the utilization of waste materials in the region that turn into income-generating new products, hence, essentially turning wastes into usable resources again and help boost the local economy”, Salapuddin was quoted as saying.

Salapuddin expressed optimism the newly hatched business partnership with Polo SN MPC would uplift the living condition of the local residents in Polomolok and help fill in government coffers. (Celestino B. Siglos, Ed.D.)