The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) and the University of the Philippines – Baguio (UPB) formally sealed their collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at advancing Philippine textile innovation within academic spaces.

The partnership establishes a framework for strengthened collaboration in textile research, education, and innovation. It paves the way for the exchange of academic information and materials, as well as the development of collaborative research projects, joint publications, and the dissemination of research outputs through appropriate scholarly platforms.

The collaboration also creates opportunities for student internship programs, continuing professional development for technical staff, community initiatives, and lectures and symposia. Both parties also commits for curriculum development, textile conservation, and policy development.

Textile-based innovation will further expand and evolve as it becomes integrated into academic spaces. At the same time, the collaboration provides significant opportunities for UP Baguio, particularly for their students and staff, by further enriching their knowledge and bringing knowledge generation closer to real-world practice.

By strengthening the partnership between research and application, the partnership positions academic knowledge to drive innovation that directly addresses societal needs and challenges.

DOST-PTRI, represented by Director Julius L. Leaño Jr., and UP Baguio, represented by Chancellor Joel A. Addawe, signed the MOU on February 18, 2026, at the University of the Philippines Baguio.