In a bold move to transform the textile landscape of Eastern Visayas, The Department of Science and Technology- Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), hosted the Innovation Dialogue: The Region VIII Textile Agenda held on 25 June 2024 at the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), Tacloban City, Leyte as part of the 2024 Regional Science and Technology, and Innovation Week Celebration (RSTW) Region VIII. 

The Dialogue aimed to bring together textile stakeholders from the region to explore potential partnerships, share best practices, identify immediate collaboration opportunities, and encourage active community participation. The ultimate goal was to foster the development and innovation of the textile industry in Eastern Visayas. 

During the Dialogue, DOST-PTRI introduced its Textile Academy. This academy is envisioned as a hub for knowledge exchange, offering cutting-edge training programs, workshops, and research initiatives. Through continuing professional education, the academy aims to equip local talents with advanced skills in textile technology, design, and sustainable practices. 

The Dialogue also featured discussions on the Natural Textile Fiber Innovations Hubs (NTFIH), under the "Fostering the Revitalization of Nascent Textile Innovations Ecosystems (FRONTIER) Program" of the DOST-PTRI. This initiative focuses on integrating regional players of natural textile fibers and materials, steering the region towards a self-reliant and sustainable textile industry. 

Stakeholders took the opportunity to present various textile and textile-related initiatives in the region. Notably, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) announced the launch of the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology major in Apparel and Fashion Technology (AFT). This degree program aims to drive innovation in textiles and local fashion in the Philippines, providing a strong educational foundation for aspiring textile professionals. 

Participants in the event included representatives from the DOST Regional Office No.VIII, Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Leyte, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Region VIII and Leyte, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) - Region VIII, and Eastern Visayas State University. 

The dialogue served as a platform for DOST-PTRI to share its latest technologies and gather feedback from participants on their relevance and potential for industry development. Furthermore, it also marked a significant step towards harnessing the textile potential of Eastern Visayas, aiming for economic development and sustainable industry practices in the region.