Advantages and Disadvantages of Traditional Abaca, Genetically Modified Abaca, and Cross Hybrid Abaca

• Main Authors: Cabotage, Aizell G., Lam, Janelle Claire S., Lozada, Gabriel Paul W., Pascasio, Mikaela Mae S.
• Format: text
• Published: Animo Repository 2021
• Subjects: traditional abaca; cross hybrid abaca; genetically modified abaca; Philippine abaca industry; abaca virus
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2021/paper_see/1; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/context/conf_shsrescon/article/1687/viewcontent/SEE_Advantages_and_Disadvantages_of_Traditional_Abaca__Genetically.pdf
• Institution: De La Salle University

Abaca (Musa Textilis Née), also known as Manila hemp, is a plant native to the Philippines, which expanded through different parts of Asia. It is a biodegradable and sustainable source of fiber known for its high quality. Due to viruses, poor government support, and lack of fundings, the abaca fiber industry is encountering obstacles in keeping up with the global demands. Over time, researchers developed new abaca types such as crossbred abaca and genetically modified abaca to solve these problems, but these have their own deficiencies as well. The purpose of the study was to identify, assess, and elaborate on the advantages and disadvantages of each of the abaca types. This was accomplished through the evaluation of literature and the collection of data in interviews. The study was a systematic review focusing on meta-synthesis, with information derived from previously published research or related literature and information from experts in the field. It was determined that traditional abaca is vastly preferred over genetically modified abaca and cross hybrid abaca, due to a number of reasons, including lack of research and economic viability. Traditional abaca was found to be more sustainable overall. It was recommended that traditional abaca should be promoted more to spread awareness, and that farmers should be educated regarding the proper process of caring for abaca plants. Stigma regarding cross hybrid and genetically modified abaca should be addressed as well.