The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) joined other key agencies at the 7th Philippine Handloom Weaving Interagency Meeting, held at the Intellectual Property Center, McKinley Hill Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

The meeting brought together different government agencies, including the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). The main goal was to strengthen cooperation to better support the handloom weaving sector.

At the heart of the discussions was the draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which outlines a framework for joint efforts to address challenges faced by handloom weavers.Once signed, the MOU will back the creation of the National Handloom Weaving Development Council (NHWDC), a body proposed under Senate Bill 241, which will focus on promoting and growing the handloom weaving industry.

The meeting also pointed out the importance of Republic Act No. 11981, also known as the Tatak Pinoy Act, for local weavers. Participants agreed that the new law could help boost locally made woven products by promoting quality craftsmanship, authentic designs, and the use of natural, blended textile fibers.

Another major concern tackled was the growing threat of counterfeit handloom products, which compromise the livelihoods of Filipino weavers and erode traditional practices. The agencies discussed ways to protect genuine woven goods and the rich cultural heritage they represent.

To address these complex challenges, the agencies agreed to conduct a series of focus group discussions to dive deeper into specific issues and discussed the need to better coordinate activities throughout the year to make sure their efforts have a stronger, united impact.