The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute through its FRONTIER Program - Regional Handloom Weaving Innovation Center together with HABI: The Philippine Textile Council and the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) of the Local Government Unit of Panganiban conducted a five-day training in Basic Handloom Weaving from March 24-28, 2025, at St. James Parish Formation Center, Panganiban, Catanduanes.

The training was participated by 18 individuals and members of San Miguel Abaca Farmers and Traders Association as pre-activity to the establishment of Abaca Weaving Center in Mabini, Panganiban by the HABI. The training covered materials calculation, yarn preparation, warp setting, and fabric production where the participants gained hands-on experience under DOST-PTRI's expert guidance. 

Mr. Francis Celestino, head of Panganiban LGU's MAO, emphasized the program’s role in supporting local livelihoods. He stated that this opportunity is what LGU Panganiban MAO has long been waiting for, benefitting their women constituents towards skills capability building by DOST-PTRI and entrepreneurial aid by the HABI Council. 

With their newly acquired skills, participants are now exploring opportunities in textile production, cooperative ventures, and small-scale weaving businesses. Organizers hope this initiative will boost the local economy and expand the weaving industry in Catanduanes.