The Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) launched on May 25 its newly refurbished facility named the Innovation Center for Yarns and Textiles (ICYT). The center aims to produce yarns from indigenous materials for the weaving and knitting communities in the various regions of the country. The launch which was held at the PTRI Compound in Bicutan, Taguig City was attended by Senator Loren B. Legarda and DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo and representatives from the industry, private sector, and the media.

Through the ICYT, Secretary Montejo expressed hope and optimism for the revitalization of the textile industry. Senator Legarda described the attendees as “culture bearers and guardians and stewards of our heritage” and thus sees the innovation center as one way of providing viable and sustainable livelihood opportunities for the people in the countryside.

The launch ceremony was followed by a tour and blessing of the ICYT facility and a press conference attended by Secretary Montejo, PTRI Director Celia Elumba, and First Secretary of the Embassy of India Mr. Narayaman Ramakrishnan. The event also coincided with the Agham na Ramdam Media Tour organized by the Science and Technology Information Institute (STII) of DOST.

The ICYT launch is part of the Institute’s pre-events for the upcoming 2015 National Science and Technology Week to be held at SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia on July 24-28.

(Message of Sen. Loren Legarda http://youtu.be/0In8P5ECJac )