National Abaca Research Center

The National Abaca Research Center (NARC) is a premier research institution under Visayas State University focused on advancing the Philippine abaca industry. It is committed to improving the livelihood of abaca farmers through research, development, and extension (RDE) activities. NARC leads innovations in abaca fiber production, pest management, and postharvest technologies. It collaborates with local and national agencies to promote sustainable practices and industry competitiveness. The center is recognized for its long-standing contribution to fiber quality and farmer development.

Established in 1987 through the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), NARC was created in response to the need for centralized research on abaca, a vital fiber crop in the Philippines. Its location at VSU Baybay was chosen for being in a major abaca-growing region. Over the years, NARC has led pioneering studies on disease-resistant varieties and integrated pest management. It continues to evolve, playing a crucial role in national fiber sustainability and farmer empowerment.

Research Thrusts

• Development of high-yielding, pest and stress resistant abaca varieties with high-quality fibers suited to specific end uses through conventional method and biotechnology.
• Generation of appropriate production management technologies to increase fiber yield per unit area.
• Development of an integrated pest management system with emphasis on bunchy top, mosaic and Fusarium wilt for sustained abaca production, especially in disease-infested areas.
• Increase value-added to abaca through development of new uses of fibers and waste products and improvement of existing ones.
• Adoption, improvement and/or development of village level postharvest processing technologies
• Enhance access of stakeholders to developed and matured abaca technologies Establish a National Abaca Information System

Facilities