The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) and the University of the Philippines - Diliman (UP-Diliman) formalized their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 5, 2025, at the UP Diliman’s Office of the Chancellor.

Photo 1. DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr. [R], and University of the Philippines - Diliman Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, LLM [L] during the MOU signing

This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) seeks to establish and strengthen technical cooperation between the DOST-PTRI and UP Diliman in the fields of textile and allied textile research, development, innovation, instruction, extension, and technology transfer. The goal is to promote meaningful collaborations and partnership, knowledge exchange, and joint initiatives among researchers and research groups from both institutions.

The MOU signing was attended by DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius L. Leaño Jr. and UP Diliman Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, LLM together with representatives from the College of Engineering, College of Home Economics, College of Science, the Department of Mining, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, and the Institute of Chemistry.

DOST-PTRI Director Leaño mentioned that, “There’s a huge gap that we need to fill as far as technical expertise when it comes to textiles. The last program for textiles in the Philippines was a long time ago. This partnership through the Institute’s Textile Academy will help bridge that gap and produce more textile experts for the country.”

UP Diliman Chancellor Vistan said that, “We are happy that the national government through the DOST-PTRI is undertaking this revival effort. We seek the Institute’s guidance on how we can help sustain and strengthen this initiative through research, innovation, and academic collaboration.”

Photo 2. Representatives from DOST-PTRI and UP Diliman during the MOU Signing

This strategic collaboration is part of DOST-PTRI’s Textile Academy, a forward-looking platform for developing advanced competencies in the textile sector. Focusing on the development and maximizing of skills and exploring capabilities, the program equips students, professionals, and communities through specialized training, applied research, and multi-stakeholder engagement. It improves a pipeline of textile innovators and enables MSMEs to align with global value chains, driving the sustainable revitalization of local industries through science and technology.

Photo 3. Representatives from DOST-PTRI and UP Diliman discussing the programs, technologies, and services of the Institute

DOST-PTRI and the University of the Philippines agree to undertake collaborative activities in areas of mutual interest, founded on the principles of equality and reciprocity. These include the exchange of academic resources and materials; joint research and development initiatives; shared use of facilities and specialized equipment; organization of lectures, symposia, and academic events; facilitation of student internships and experiential learning opportunities; continuing professional development for technical personnel; community extension and outreach activities; and other mutually agreed endeavors that support their shared goals.

Photo 4. DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr. [R], and University of the Philippines - Diliman Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, LLM [L] during the MOU signing

Through these collaborative initiatives, DOST-PTRI and the University of the Philippines aim to push meaningful innovation in sustainable textile production, create high-impact educational and career pathways for students from different backgrounds, and contribute to the inclusive socio-economic development of local communities across the nation.

For more information about DOST-PTRI’s programs, technologies, and services, the Institute may be reached through email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and its official social media accounts.