The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) participated in the opening ceremony of the 2024 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week, through a textile innovation exhibit held at the Amoranto Arena in Diliman, Quezon City. The event, themed “Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” runs from October 29 to 31 and aims to emphasize the importance of science and technology in shaping a resilient future for the country. 

The Institute exhibit features products developed under the Shoes and Footwear Accessories from the R&D on Textile-based Omnibus Solutions (SAFATOS) Program. Among the highlights are the Lakat shoes, made from 100% pineapple fibers and enhanced with water-repellent and antimicrobial finishing technologies. 

The exhibition also showcases a collection modeled by the Filipino pop group ALAMAT, which was featured during their performance at the 2023 Stitch-Off Street Wear Competition. This collection exemplifies the application of innovative textile technologies within contemporary fashion. 

Another significant display includes a Mandarin-collared polo barong uniform designed by Pablo Cabahug for the House of Representatives. The barong, adorned with half sinag embroidery inspired by the Philippine flag, is crafted from fabric power-loom woven by Weavers Textile Mills Inc. and dyed using advanced techniques developed by DOST-PTRI. 

Additionally, the exhibit presents a fiber transformation display that includes samples of raw fibers, treated fibers, and open fibers from various natural sources, including pineapple, abaca, banana, and bamboo. Visitors can also find natural-dyed yarns and handwoven fabrics, providing insights into the processing and versatility of these materials.

KAWAYARN: The Bamboo Textiles PH is another featured component of the exhibition, displaying a range of accessories, bags, and other products made from bamboo textiles which highlights the potential of bamboo as a sustainable resource in the textile industry.

The KatHABI Textile Innovation Exhibition aims to foster awareness of the advancements in textile technology and promote collaboration among local weavers, designers, and researchers. As the 2024 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week progresses, DOST-PTRI continues its commitment to showcasing local innovations and encouraging engagement in the textile industry especially in the National Capital Region.