As part of its commitment to sustainable textile innovation, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) joined the Artisan’s Bazaar by showcasing a textile exhibition at the World Ikat Textiles Symposium (WITS) 2024. The symposium, held from December 3–6, 2024, was organized by the World Crafts Council Asia Pacific Region (WCC-APR) in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Baguio and the Cordillera Textiles Project (CordiTex) at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center (BCCC) in Baguio City.

The Institute highlighted its Natural Dyes Program, which uses plant-based dyes in ikat dyeing processes, blending eco-friendly technologies with traditional weaving techniques. This program aims to promote sustainable practices while preserving the rich cultural heritage of ikat weaving in the Philippines.

The exhibition also featured a variety of Philippine ikat textiles, including works from an Ifugao community led by Mr. Sammy Buhle and the Banaue Tie Dye Weavers Association (LABTDWA), as well as fabrics from other regions across the Philippines.

On display was a PTF male attire by Anthony Cruz Legarda, comprising a piña-silk (warp) and cotton-bamboo (weft) full-open Barong Tagalog woven by Raquel’s Piña Cloth, paired with Ifugao Ikat and Pinili strip straight trousers by Ifugao Nation. A female “Ternohemian” dress, designed by students from the BA Major in Fashion Design and Merchandising program at De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), was also showcased.

Visitors had the chance to experience the Institute’s Therapeutic Handloom Weaving Machine Version 2 (TheraLoom V2), specially designed for differently-abled individuals, paraplegics, and elderly users. This innovative technology incorporates a sliding beater and a hand-held lever, replacing traditional pedals to allow easier harness interchange during the weaving process.

In addition to DOST-PTRI’s exhibit, the event featured a comprehensive display of Philippine ikat textiles, GAMABA masterworks, and global ikat collections at the BCCC. The exhibition also launched an artisanal bazaar, offering a platform for weavers and artisans to showcase their handcrafted goods.