In a recent collaborative effort, textile stakeholders from Region 12, accompanied by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office XII, visited the DOST - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) on August 29, 2024, for a benchmarking activity. 

The delegation was from the Mahintana Foundation, Inc. and the Tibud Sa Katibawasan Multi-Purpose Cooperative. The Mahintana Foundation, Inc., known for its community development initiatives, works on improving quality of life through various projects, including those in agriculture and livelihoods. Meanwhile, the Tibud Sa Katibawasan Multi-Purpose Cooperative focuses on enhancing economic opportunities through cooperative efforts in their localities. 

During the visit, the stakeholders expressed interest in the Institute’s Bamboo Textiles PH Program, which aims to develop sustainable textile solutions using bamboo fibers. They also explored economic opportunities related to pineapple fibers and discussed potential future collaborations. 

The visit concluded with a tour at the Institute's Innovation Center for Yarns and Textiles (ICYT), gaining deeper knowledge of the fiber-to-yarn transformation process and the handloom machines used in textile production.