In a significant effort to preserve and revitalize traditional textile practices, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), in collaboration with DOST Region XI's Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) and the Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) Program, conducted a two-day training on the extraction and application of natural dyes from June 18 to 19, 2024 at the Bamboo Sanctuary and Ecological Park in Barangay Malagos, Davao City. 

The training targeted the Bagobo Tagabawa Tribal Council of Brgy. Binugao, Toril, Davao City, a community with deep historical roots tracing back to the early settlers who brought Hinduism to Mindanao. This community, nestled at the foothill of Mt. Apo in Davao del Sur, is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly its tradition of textile dyeing. 

Despite their rich heritage, the present-day Bagobo-Tagabawa descendants face challenges in maintaining their traditional practices. With only a few elders well-versed in ancestral ways, the community risks losing their treasured techniques. The association members, who predominantly use polyester fabrics for their unique cultural clothing adorned with endemic bead designs, sought to enrich their knowledge and skills through this training. 

Twenty (20) members of the tribe, including youth representatives, participated in the event. The comprehensive training covered the entire process of natural dyeing, from pre-treatment and mordanting of cotton yarns and fabrics to the extraction of natural dyes. Participants learned to extract dyes from a variety of local sources, including mahogany barks, talisay leaves, yellow ginger, annatto seeds, and coconut husk. 

Furthermore, this initiative aims not only to preserve the traditional dyeing techniques of the Bagobo-Tagabawa but also to empower the community through sustainable practices and scientific knowledge. By integrating modern scientific approaches with traditional methods, the training supports the community in maintaining their cultural identity while also opening up potential avenues for economic development.