DOST Partners with Key Stakeholders for an Inclusive Innovation TELA Program in Northern Luzon

By: Sharmainne Rhey B. Caoili
Technology Transfer, Information and Promotions Staff

The Department of Science and Technology through its Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) has recently spearheaded the official signing of the memorandum of agreement for the Inclusive Innovation (i2) TELA program at the Isabela Convention Center in the City of Cauayan. The Institute is partnering with the academe, local government units, and DOST regional offices to successfully establish three (3) natural textile facilities. 

Each stakeholder takes on a complementary role in the accomplishment of the i2TELA Program. 

Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) – Northern Luzon:

The Isabela State University – City of Ilagan Campus will house and operate the RYPIC in Northern Luzon while LGU Ilagan will take charge of the promotion and utilization of the RYPIC yarn products to handloom weaving communities. On the other hand, DOST Region 2 will work hand in hand with DOST-PTRI in the implementation of the i2TELA Program in the region;

Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (BTFIH): 

The Isabela State University – City of Cauayan Campus will house and operate the Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub while LGU Cauayan will aid in sourcing bamboo and push for the use of bamboo-blended yarn products in the region. DOST Region 2 will likewise support DOST-PTRI in its implementation of the community-scale textile fiber innovation hubs in the region;

Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (NTFIH): 

The Apayao State College- Luna Campus will house and operate the Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub and conduct research in collaboration with DOST-PTRI. LGU Luna will assist in the procurement and identification of strategic partners to supply pineapple leaf and banana pseudostems for the hub, while DOST-CAR will support DOST-PTRI in the implementation of the project in the region.

Through the establishment of the yarn production facility and textile fiber processing facilities, the i2 TELA Program envisions a robust local textile ecosystem that will generate livelihoods from farmers to weavers and designers within the same regions and shift the consciousness of consumers toward value-based patronage.

The ceremonial signing of the agreements was attended by DOST-PTRI Director Celia B. Elumba, DOST Region II Director Virginia G. Bilgera, DOST-CAR Regional Director Dr. Nancy A. Bantog, Cauayan City Mayor Bernard Faustino M. Dy, Isabela State University President Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino, Prof. Sonia Velarde of Apayao State College, and Mr. Antonio Montereal of LGU-Ilagan. It was witnessed by the program's representatives and supporters led by DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña and DOST Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang.

Prior to the signing of the Memorandum of Agreements (MOAs), a two-day Operations Planning Workshop was conducted with stakeholders to discuss and develop concrete action and management plans for the i2 TELA program. As the implementing agency, DOST-PTRI will take charge of the initial operational requirements and provide technical and capability-building support within the first two (2) years of the program.

For more information about the DOST-PTRI’s programs and services, visit and follow DOST-PTRI social media accounts like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube accounts or check out www.ptri.dost.gov.ph