A coffee-table book on colorants from tropical plants is now off the press.

The Philippine Textile Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (PTRI-DOST) has recently released its new publication, Bahaghari: Colors of the Philippines. The 140-page book contains general information on natural dyes and their plant sources and clear, crisp photos of PTRI-developed naturally dyed tropical fabrics in formal ensemble with a twist of elegance worn by participants and delegates to the 8th ASEAN Science and Technology Week (ASTW) in July 2008, Miss Earth 2007 candidates, and some ramp models. Besides the ASTW, the naturally dyed barongs and dresses jazzed up the Bahaghari Fashion Show at the ASTW dinner held at Hotel Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Manila and gave zest to the pictorial for the book. 

Bahaghari:Colors of the Philippinesattaches social connotations with each featured color from natural dyes and illustrates the facets of the Filipino culture. PTRI researchers Julius L. Leaño Jr. and Jenice P. Malabanan co-wrote the book.

“PTRI has developed, standardized, and commercialized technologies on natural dyes and has given this age-old craft a new life,” shares Dr. Carlos C. Tomboc, director of PTRI. “As these natural colors are gifts from nature, so are these dyed textiles the country’s gift to the world,” he added.

Anthony Cruz Legarda, a New York-based fashion designer, served as creative director of Bahaghari:Colors of the Philippines and designer of barongs of the science ministers. Some industries assisted by PTRI such as Kingsmen Barong, La Herminia Piña Weaving Industry, Dela Cruz House of Piña, Bon Gavino-Gautier’s Unimoda, and Eairth by Melissa Dizon showcased their creations in the book, which will be distributed to all DOST attached agencies and regional offices as well as the ASEAN science ministers. (Arlene R. Obmerga, S&T Media Service)