DOST-PTRI welcomes the Queen Pineapple Research and Development Institute of Camarines Norte State College (QPRDI-CNSC) on February 18, 2026, at their institute, and engages in an exploratory meeting to discuss potential collaboration on the production of nonwovens and alternative leather materials from pineapple leaf fibers.

DOST-PTRI presented their FRONTIER (Fostering the Revitalization of Nascent Textile Innovation Ecosystems in the Region) Program to the QPRDI-CNSC. The Frontier Program is a strategic initiative designed to revitalize the research, clothing, and textile innovation agenda across various regions in the country. The program focuses on establishing regional innovation hubs for natural textiles, utilizing byproducts and locally abundant materials available in their respective communities.

(QPRDI-CNSC) also shared their ongoing projects, including the exploration of Queen Pineapple leaf fiber for textile applications, particularly as an alternative material for leather production. The potential collaboration will open more opportunities to farmers and local industries in their region by utilizing their agricultural byproducts while taking pride in their locally-made nonwoven products.

Following the meeting, DOST-PTRI showcased its facilities, such as the Innovation Center for Yarns and Textile (ICYT), which caters to the fiber and textile production. The QPRDI-CNSC personally witnessed the process from raw materials to processed fibers.

The CNSC delegation was composed of Director Dr. Arlene C. Alegre, Patrick O. Cabrejas (Project Staff), Engr. Franz Andrew T. Tiangco (Project Technical Assistant III), Imee C. Talavera (Project Technical Assistant I), and Yeshua Dan R. Bigasa (Project Technical Assistant II).