The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) hosted the Innovation Dialogue for fashion and garment industry stakeholders at Provincial Science and Technology Office - Cebu, as part of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Cebu on April 23, 2025.

One of the stakeholders, Edwin Ao, a well-known menswear designer and member of the Fashion Council Cebu, shared plans to use a cotton-abaca fabric blend in his upcoming 2025 collection. Ao eyes potential collaboration with DOST-PTRI in creating a directory of Cebu-based designers.

Meanwhile, Miguel Bedia of Matix UP Cebu discussed ways to grow the fashion design program at the University of the Philippines Cebu. He pointed out the need for tools like digital cutting machines and body scanners, which could help both teaching and product development, and hopes to work with DOST-PTRI to make those tools available.

Designer Jann Christian Bungcaras also spoke about using recycled fabric in fashion and plans to work with DOST-PTRI on projects that promote circular fashion and reduce waste like the Textile Revitalization (TexRev).

This innovation dialogue marks an important step in connecting science with creative industries like fashion, garments and apparel. With stronger collaboration between innovators, educators, and designers across the country, the Philippines is moving toward becoming a leading center for the sustainable textile innovation ecosystem.