The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) is spearheading the revitalization of silk cocoon production in Bukidnon. This move involves six new sericulture farmers from Quezon, Kalilangan, and Talakag who have partnered with DOST-PTRI through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). This collaboration aims to bring back the region as the leading in the Philippine silk industry.

Among the farmers, three from Mibantang, Quezon, each manage around 2,000 hills of mulberry plantations and have already begun trial rearing of silkworm hybrids. They are working with a partner farmer from Talakag to test silkworm rearing practices. While the farmers are eager to scale up their operations, they face challenges related to the lack of standardized rearing structures that would allow for efficient and optimal silkworm cultivation. These facilities are important for providing the right conditions for the silkworms to survive.

With the support of DOST-PTRI and potential backing from both the government and private sectors, Bukidnon is at ease to regain its prominence in the Philippine silk industry. The successful revitalization of sericulture in the province would bring economic development, sustainable livelihoods, and agricultural growth to local communities, paving the way for a stronger, more resilient silk industry in the Philippines.