The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) participated in the opening of the 2024 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTIW) in CALABARZON on October 14, 2024. Held at the Carmona Community Center, Carmona, Cavite, the Institute presented the KatHABI Textile Innovation Exhibition, which featured various programs and advancements in textile technology, focusing on sustainability and innovation. 

The exhibition highlighted the TEXREV Project, an initiative that converts post-industrial textile waste into spun yarns. This project aims to address textile waste by offering an alternative material solution for the industry. DOST-PTRI recently partnered with the Local Government of Taytay, Rizal, to implement a waste textile upcycling program, showcasing efforts to promote sustainable practices in the region. 

Another project featured was the Constructions and Buildings Using Indigenous Locally Developed Natural Textiles (CoBUILDTex) Program. This program utilizes indigenous fibers such as bamboo and banana to create nonwoven panels for construction purposes. These panels are designed to improve indoor environmental quality by providing thermal and acoustic insulation, offering a natural alternative for building materials. 

The Institute also displayed products from the Shoes and Footwear Accessories from the R&D on Textile-based Omnibus Solutions (SAFATOS) Program, including the Lakat shoes made from Philippine Tropical Fabrics. The shoes, enhanced with water-repellent and antimicrobial technology, were modeled by the Filipino pop group ALAMAT, highlighting the use of local materials in the footwear industry. 

Additionally, the ProTex Project showcased protective outerwear made from a blend of natural fibers such as pineapple leaf, bamboo, and bandala. These textiles offer water-repellent and antimicrobial properties, providing potential applications for protective clothing in various industries. 

DOST-PTRI’s core programs, including Natural Dyes and SEDA Pilipinas, were also featured. The exhibition displayed naturally dyed yarns, natural dye sources, and silk yarns produced by Filipino silk worms, promoting the use of natural resources in the textile industry. 

The 2024 RSTIW provided a platform for DOST-PTRI to highlight its ongoing efforts in promoting sustainable textile technologies. Through its participation, the Institute aims to foster innovation in the textile sector while addressing environmental concerns and supporting local industries.