MANILA, Philippines--The Department of Agriculture is promoting use of packaging materials made of natural fiber to support the local material while helping to curb the use of non-biodegradable materials such as plastics.

The Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA) is talking to local government officials, business leaders and environmentalists on how to promote the use of abaca and ?sinamay? packaging materials in commercial establishments, the department said.

The Makati City government has an ordinance regulating use of plastics. This city policy opens up opportunities for abaca-based packaging materials, the agriculture department said.

Marikina City and the Rotary Club of District in Marikina City are working with the FIDA in conducting training programs, particularly on making abaca paper and fiber mats into packaging for various industries, the department said.

The Philippines produced 77,000 metric tons of abaca fiber last year, up 27.5 percent from the 2007 level, according to department data.

The Philippines supplies about 85 percent of the world requirement for abaca, the department said. Edited by INQUIRER.net