The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, Department of Tourism Region 10, and STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI), has initiated a livelihood program for the women of the Villanueva Kini General Services Multi-Purpose Cooperative (VKMPC). As part of SPI’s Livelihood and Enterprise Development Program, two sets of silk hand-loom weaving machines were formally turned over to VKMPC, aiming to establish a thriving silk industry in Villanueva. 

The new silk weaving machines are an integral part of an initiative designed to empower local women and catalyze economic growth in Villanueva. The donated handlooms will enable VKMPC members to produce high-quality silk fabrics, which are expected to become known as “Villanueva Silk,” turning the municipality into a silk weaving hub that attracts both local and international interest. 

This project benefits from the resources of DOST-PTRI’s silk facility in Brgy. Imelda, Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, where the machines are housed. DOST-PTRI and its collaborators envision the production of local silk as a pathway to empower women in the community, promote sustainable livelihoods, and position Villanueva as a center of excellence in silk weaving. This effort is expected to support tourism, foster pride in local products, and expand the scope of Villanueva's contribution to the Philippine textile industry.

The handover ceremony was attended by several key figures, including Villanueva Mayor Jennie Rosalie U. Mendez, Vice Mayor Jeric Emano, Assistant Regional Director Decius Esmedalla of the Department of Tourism Region 10, and SPI officials led by Community Relations Manager Jerome Soldevilla.

As Villanueva moves forward with this initiative, the LGU, DOST-PTRI, and SPI express hope that the silk industry will boost the local economy and open up a new avenue for women in the community to learn valuable skills. By supporting VKMPC in producing high-quality textiles, this program not only secures a livelihood for local weavers but also aims to establish Villanueva as a proud producer of Philippine silk.