The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) engaged with the Local Government Unit of Midsayap, Cotabato to its Technology Center in Misamis Oriental on 10 July 2025 for a benchmarking activity focused on exploring sericulture opportunities in the region.

The delegation was led by Municipal Mayor Hon. Rolly Sacdalan, along with the Municipal Agriculture Officer, the president of the Mulberry Growers Association, and agriculture consultant Dr. Edwin Balaki, who initially introduced mulberry cultivation in Midsayap. The visit aimed to explore productive uses for surplus mulberry leaves from fruit-bearing varieties, which are often discarded after the fruits are harvested and processed into beverages.

The activity began with a meeting at the center’s conference room, where the DOST-PTRI SEDA Pilipinas Team, headed by Supervising Science Research Specialist and Silk Program focal person Ms. Cheryl G. Lopez, presented the current status and future directions of the Philippine Silk Road Program. The presentation gave the delegation a clearer understanding of the country's expanding silk value chain and the science and innovations supporting its development.

Dr. Balaki, also President of Southern Christian College, shared their intention to introduce sericulture as an alternative livelihood for mulberry fruit farmers. This aligns with their goal of promoting a circular economy by maximizing the use of all parts of the plant. The team also expressed interest in establishing a Silk Innovation Hub in Midsayap, Cotabato, with strong support from Mayor Sacdalan.

To conclude the visit, the DOST-PTRI team led a guided tour of the center’s key facilities, including the silk exhibit room, silkworm rearing house, and silk processing areas. The hands-on experience provided the delegation with a deeper appreciation of silk production and strengthened their commitment to developing similar initiatives in their locality.