The first Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (BTFIH) in Mindanao has been officially launched in Cabayugan, Barangay Simbalan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, marking a major milestone in sustainable textile development in the region.

The facility is expected to benefit over 100 local farmers by providing access to innovative processing technology that adds value to bamboo—a sustainable and locally available resource. The hub is equipped to process up to 40 kilograms of raw bamboo fibers per day, supporting yarn spinning and other textile applications.

This pioneering initiative is a result of the collaborative efforts of the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), DOST Caraga, the Municipality of Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, and the Kapunungan sa mga Mag-uuma sa Simbalan Inc. (KAMASI).

The processed fibers will be utilized by the upcoming Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) in Kabacan, North Cotabato, further strengthening the local textile value chain and promoting inclusive innovation in Mindanao.

Watch out for the next BTFIH!