The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), in collaboration with Puey Quiñones of Icurate International and Ms. Belinda Ebuenga, recently explored the potential for integrating handloom weaving into the curriculum at the Bobon School for Philippine Craftsmen (BSPC) in Bobon, Northern Samar. 

During their visit, the Team met with Ms. Evelyn Birtuves and Ms. Pamela Quiñones of BSPC to discuss incorporating handloom weaving into the school's Technical Vocational Education Department. BSPC, a public secondary school with 16 classroom buildings, including a garment section, is situated on an expansive eight-hectare campus. The institution is poised to enhance its educational offerings by introducing this traditional craft to its students.

Quiñones, a renowned Filipino fashion designer, emphasized the potential benefits of adding textile weaving to BSPC’s curriculum. He noted that this skill would not only complement the school’s existing programs but also equip students with valuable, marketable skills that honor and preserve Filipino heritage. 

DOST-PTRI, through its Textile Academy Program, views this partnership as a strategic move aligned with its mission. Establishing a handloom weaving center at BSPC aims to make the craft more appealing to the younger generation, fostering innovation and maintaining the relevance of traditional weaving practices in modern times. This initiative is expected to breathe new life into the Regional Textile Ecosystem in Eastern Visayas.