The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) conducted a benchmarking activity at the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) in Isabela and the Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (NTFIH) in Apayao on July 15-18, 2024. 

The activity included participation from local government officials of Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya, and Benito Soliven, Isabela, led by their respective Municipality Mayor Dolores B. Binwag and Municipal Administrator Rodelyn Grace V. Lungan, RN, MAN. 

School officials from Aldersgate College Inc. in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, also joined the event, highlighting the interest in collaborative efforts between educational institutions and Local Government Units (LGUs). 

The benchmarking activity focused on the potential collaboration and partnership between these LGUs to leverage readily available crops such as pineapple and banana. LGU-Quezon is particularly interested in establishing its own NTFIH to maximize waste generated from pineapple. Meanwhile, farmers from Aldersgate College Inc. and LGU-Benito Soliven expressed interest in supplying decorticated abaca and banana fiber, respectively, to the NTFIH in Apayao. 

Participants visited RYPIC, Isabela, located within Isabela State University in Ilagan, where they observed the finished products made from pineapple and banana fibers. This visit reinforced their interest in pursuing textile-based business opportunities. 

LGU-Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya, Aldersgate College Inc., and LGU-Benito Soliven, Isabela, aim to elevate Northern Luzon’s textile industry to the forefront of innovation and success. DOST-PTRI personnel provided consultancy services and guided tours to enhance awareness of textile science, local capabilities, and opportunities for product development.