ALABEL, Sarangani — Alabel municipal officials showcased the town’s sustainable agriculture, cultural preservation, and community development initiatives at a national festival in Mandaluyong City on Friday.
Mayor Lilibeth Salarda and municipal administrator Vic Paul Salarda presented the town's economic strategies at the joint BIYAYA: Sustainable Living Festival and Manila Coffee Festival held at the SM Megamall MegaTrade Hall.
Mayor Salarda attributed Alabel's success to community collaboration and development partnerships, noting the growth of the coffee propagation and abaca handloom weaving sectors.
"For us, culture is not a souvenir, it is the soul of our community and of our municipality," Salarda said.
She acknowledged support from the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority and the Department of Agriculture in boosting livelihoods for local weavers and farmers.
Vic Paul Salarda highlighted the economic impact of the coffee industry, praising SMILE Coffee and Kape Geo owner Geourdean Allada for promoting local products.
He also credited the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist and social enterprise PHILIA for expanding market access for Mindanao's Indigenous communities.
Officials said the event underscores Alabel’s commitment to people-centered growth through strong stakeholder partnerships.
The Manila Coffee Festival is an annual celebration of Philippine coffee culture, featuring local roasters, artisan crafts, and sustainable living initiatives.
Organized in collaboration with Coffee Expo Manila and the Biyaya Sustainable Living Festival, the event highlights the richness of locally sourced coffees, traditional weaving, and handmade crafts. It offers a vibrant experience for coffee lovers and the wider community. The festival runs through July 19.
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