Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) Director Dr. Julius L. Leaño Jr. met with Councilor Leandro Yangot of Baguio City to discuss measures to safeguard indigenous weaving traditions and ensure the authenticity of indigenous textile products, to counteract imitations on Indigenous Weaving

City Councilor Leandro Yangot Jr. proposed the Baguio City Textile Heritage Protection Protocol, a measure designed to formally establish a legal ordinance that safeguards indigenous weaving traditions. The proposal aims to prevent misappropriation and unauthorized mass production of machine-made imitations of traditional textiles. The measure aligns with the DOST-PTRI's Weavers’ Manifesto initiative, signed in November 2025. The manifesto advocates for the protection of authentic handwoven fabrics and opposes the widespread use of counterfeit handwoven textiles and machine-made woven replicas.

Under the measure, individuals found in violation would face both administrative and criminal liabilities. Penalties would begin with an official reprimand and compulsory training on cultural sensitivity and intellectual property rights for first-time offenders, with progressively stricter sanctions imposed for repeat violations.

Their discussion covers the steps to prevent imitation and ensure the proposed strategies are operationalized. The discussion identified that proper labelling of products is a low-hanging initiative, alongside the utilization of digital platforms and collaboration with the University of the Philippines Baguio to provide technical guidance on Cordillera iconography. The Institute’s readiness to assist in developing an operational framework that could serve as a reference model for other local government units is further affirmed by Dr. Leaño

Their discussion also outlines the proper labelling of products, symbols and icons creation, development of operational briefers, creation of an official marker for Baguio Weaves, and ways to prevent counterfeit products.

To uphold authenticity, they seek to develop a proper labeling system that will distinguish genuine weaves from imitations in the market. Central to this effort is the creation of a distinct symbol, an icon that they will create, which will also represent the rich heritage, culture, and identity woven into every authentic Baguio textile.

They are also pushing for the development of a briefer to guide the effective implementation and operationalization of measures designed to protect and preserve their traditional weaving heritage. By integrating digitalization initiatives, they plan to introduce an official authentication marker for Baguio Weaves.

Moreover, they are determined to intensify efforts against counterfeit textiles that undermine the industry, protecting both the cultural legacy and the livelihoods of local artisans who keep this tradition alive.

Through these strategic measures and initiatives, DOST-PTRI and the Baguio City LGU aim to eliminate the imitation of Indigenous textile products and champion the community’s culture, tradition, and identity through textiles that are genuinely and proudly their own.