An important milestone in the Philippine textile industry was marked today with the official launch of the Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (BTFIH) in Cabayugan, Barangay Simbalan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. This event drew key government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders from various sectors.

Engr. Noel M. Ajoc, Regional Director of DOST Caraga, delivered the opening message, while the project’s rationale was presented by Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Director IV of the DOST - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), highlighting the hub's role in advancing bamboo textile technology in the country.

Messages of support and encouragement were delivered by esteemed officials, including Hon. Joselito T. Roble, Mayor of Buenavista, Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante, Provincial Governor of Agusan del Norte, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, and Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., Secretary of DOST.

The event culminated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by a guided facility tour, allowing guests to witness the hub’s operations and bamboo fiber processing capabilities.

The Provincial Government expressed their strong support in expanding the hub to add more process and value in textile fiber production. The Local Government Unit of Buenavista expresses its heartfelt gratitude to DOST for their unwavering support in uplifting the lives of their people and enhancing local livelihoods.