GOVPH

The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) participated in Likha 3: Likha ko, Lahi Ko, organized by the Office of the First Lady at Forum 2 & 3 of the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. Likha aims to celebrate Filipino traditional crafts on the 126th Anniversary of Philippine Independence Day by showcasing the talents of 87 artisans from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This edition of Likha will be a celebration of Philippine traditional textiles and crafts, offering a platform for artisans to display their unique creations. 

As the government agency mandated to conduct textile R&D, the Institute's booth presented its textile programs, such as the FRONTIER program, which seeks to amplify regional textile innovation by strategically establishing hubs for textile fibers and yarns, alongside regional centers dedicated to natural dyes and weaving innovations. The Institute also promoted its other programs, technologies, and services for the artisans, weaving communities, and textile-based enterprises. 

In a significant step towards sustainable luxury furnishings, Apexotel and the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) have formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The signing ceremony took place on June 4, 2024, marking a milestone in the use of eco-friendly fabrics in high-end home decor and furnishings. 

The partnership, which aims to bring curated and sustainable pieces to both local and international markets, was initiated during an initial visit by the Apexotel team on May 27, 2024. The team, led by Ms. Hyacinth Nabong, the Creative Director of Apexotel, returned to finalize the agreement alongside Mr. Jo-Dann Darong, Director III of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), who was an invited guest for the occasion. 

In celebration of the National Heritage Month, the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) hosted a closing ceremony on the second day of the learning visit by Hanunuo Mangyan weavers, Mindoro State University (MinSU) faculty, and Local Government Unit (LGU) officials from Mansalay and Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, held on May 31, 2024. 

A highlight of the closing ceremony was the ceremonial marking of the Philippine Textiles Map at the DOST-PTRI Tela Gallery. During this symbolic act, the weavers affixed their traditional woven Ramit fabric onto the map of Oriental Mindoro.