The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) showcased textile products primarily made from bamboo, abaca, and raffia at the KatHABI Textile Innovation Exhibit during the first day of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Central Visayas held in Tagbilaran, Bohol.  

Most of the showcased textile products are from DOST-PTRI's programs such as Bamboo Textiles PH, Natural Dyes, and the Shoes and Footwear Accessories from the R&D on Textile-based Omnibus Solutions for the Philippine Shoe Industry Program (SAFATOS). 

Notably, the displays on fibers, yarns, fabrics, and wearables, are made from raw materials abundant in Central Visayas, such as raffia in Bohol, bamboo in Negros Oriental, and abaca in the provinces of Cebu & Siquijor. 

In order to integrate research on innovative sustainable design into academia, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) in partnership with DOST Bohol PSTO and Department of Science and Technology VII organized two activities for the final day of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) Central Visayas held at Island City Mall, Tagbilaran City, Bohol on April 20, 2024. 

The first activity, titled "Fiber Fusion: Exploring Innovations in Bamboo and Indigenous Fibers for Forward Design," was led by Ms. Zailla F. Payag, Supervising Science Research Specialist. She discussed the potential of Fiber Fusion with Industrial Design students in Bohol, focusing on the benefits of utilizing Philippine indigenous fibers such as bamboo, banana, abaca, and raffia as materials for various textile products. Ms. Payag highlighted the desirable properties of these fibers and demonstrated how they can be combined through weaving, 3D printing, and composite material fabrication. 

The second activity, the "Natural Dye Silk Screen Workshop," aimed to showcase sustainable coloration techniques using natural dyes while providing participants with an introduction to the fundamentals of the screen-printing process. Ms. Kimberly P. Viron, Science Research Specialist II, provided an overview of DOST-PTRI's Natural Dyes Program and delivered a lecture on Silk Screen Printing. Following the lecture, participants engaged in a hands-on activity to gain firsthand experience with the technology. 

Furthermore, by equipping students and participants with knowledge and hands-on experience in utilizing natural fibers and dyes, the Institute contributes to the promotion of environmentally friendly and culturally rich approaches to textile innovation. Such initiatives pave the way for a more sustainable future in the textile industry, aligning with global efforts towards eco-conscious design and production.