The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) recently engaged with the Municipality of Vintar, Ilocos Norte, to support its efforts in exploring the local footwear industry. As part of a broader Technology Mission to Marikina City, DOST-PTRI hosted a key visit to its Innovation Center for Yarns and Textiles (ICYT), where municipal representatives, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), local weavers, and officials from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Ilocos Norte gained firsthand insights into textile innovation. The mission, led by Mayor Richard A. Degala and Councilor Randy Degala, aimed to equip Vintar’s stakeholders with knowledge on sustainable material production and its applications in shoemaking.  

During their time at DOST-PTRI, the delegation learned the fiber-to-yarn transformation process and the Institute’s advanced handloom weaving technologies. They gained critical insights into the development of textile-based materials suitable for footwear applications—an essential component of Ilocos Norte’s plan to integrate local weaving into the industry. The Institute also showcased innovations under its Shoes and Footwear Accessories from the R&D on Textile-based Omnibus Solutions for the Philippine Shoe Industry (SAFATOS) Program, highlighting how Philippine Tropical Fabrics and other sustainable textiles can revolutionize footwear production.  

This engagement directly aligns with the municipality’s preparations for establishing the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) - Ilocos, which aims to support local weavers and footwear artisans by providing high-quality yarns. Additionally, the Handloom Weaving Innovation Hub - Vintar, launched in January 2025 under DOST-PTRI’s FRONTIER (Fostering the Revitalization of Nascent Textile Innovation Ecosystems in the Regions) Program, is set to enhance local weaving capabilities with the deployment of HL Mach 4.0 Modified Handloom Weaving Machines. These efforts pave the way for the integration of bamboo textile fibers into sustainable footwear production, strengthening Ilocos Norte’s position as a key player in Northern Luzon’s footwear industry.  

Beyond the DOST-PTRI visit, the delegation immersed themselves in Marikina’s shoemaking landscape, visiting facilities such as the Shared Service Facility for High-Value Custom-Made Footwear and Leather Goods, JRM Konzept Shoes, Zachy Shoes, and Nifty Shoes. They also witnessed bag-making innovations at the High-Standard Quality Bag Making Center, expanding their understanding of leather goods production. Discussions with the Philippine Footwear Federation Inc. (PFFI) opened opportunities for collaboration, including joint trade fair participation and knowledge-sharing initiatives to introduce shoemaking techniques in Ilocos Norte. 

By leveraging DOST-PTRI’s textile innovations and Marikina’s expertise, Vintar is positioning itself as a sustainable footwear hub while reinforcing its standing as the 2024 Most Sustainable and Livable Municipality in the Philippines. The municipality remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability, championing the use of natural textile fibers and weaving traditions to drive economic growth and job creation.