The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) joined other Philippine delegates to the 9th ASEAN Traditional Textile Symposium (ATTS 9) held from November 4-6, 2024, at the Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel, Vientiane, Laos. Organized by the Lao Handicraft Association (LHA), this symposium celebrated the cultural heritage and traditional textile practices of the ASEAN region.

The ATTS 9 provided a platform for weavers, designers, and researchers to share knowledge and showcase textile artistry through research presentations, panel discussions, exhibitions, and live demonstrations. Representatives from each Southeast Asian nation highlighted textiles unique to their cultural heritage, while exhibitors displayed an array of traditional fabrics from across the region. Scholars, museum professionals, and artisans joined the gathering, facilitating a vibrant exchange of ideas and techniques.

Dr. Analyn Salvador-Amores, a Professor of Anthropology and lead researcher for the Cordillera Textiles Project (CORDITEX) at the University of the Philippines Baguio, served as one of the speakers representing the Philippines. Her presentation, “Indigenous Textiles from Northern Luzon, Philippines: From Museums to Weaving Communities,” underscored the importance of these textiles not only as museum artifacts but as living traditions within weaving communities.

Ms. Divina Balagto Calingayan of the Kiyyangan Weavers Association was also one of the exhibitors, displaying handwoven fabrics and products that provided visitors with a close look at the craftsmanship and heritage behind Filipino textiles, exemplifying the artistry of Kiyyangan weavers. Moreover, the HABI Textile Council was part of the Philippine delegation.

DOST-PTRI played a pivotal role in representing the Philippines’ textile heritage. As the country’s premier agency for textile research, and innovation, DOST-PTRI has long been committed to revitalizing and safeguarding indigenous textile traditions through scientific and technological support. This includes initiatives to support sustainable practices in dyeing, weaving, and fiber processing, ensuring that traditional Filipino crafts remain relevant in modern contexts. Through programs like the DigiTELAzation and partnerships with regional weaving centers, DOST-PTRI actively collaborates with local weaving communities to preserve and promote the nation’s textile heritage.

The ASEAN Traditional Textile Symposium is an initiative of the Traditional Textile Arts Society of Southeast Asia (TTASSEA), originally known as the ASEAN Traditional Textile Arts Community (ASEAN TTAC). TTASSEA is dedicated to preserving traditional textiles through science, conservation, and education, fostering a collective appreciation for cultural heritage across the region.

Through its presence at ATTS 9, DOST-PTRI reaffirms the Philippines’ commitment to preserving and celebrating the nation’s rich textile legacy on a global platform, ensuring that the history and artistry of Filipino textiles continue to inspire generations across the ASEAN region and beyond.