HATAW! D'yaryo ng Bayan hatawtabloid.com
The second day of the 2025 National Textile Convention (TELACon), held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), gathered key industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss the future of the Philippine textile industry. Organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), the event highlighted the importance of sustainability, authenticity, and industry collaboration in shaping a resilient textile sector.
Kicking off the day’s proceedings, DOST-PTRI Director IV Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr. delivered the welcome remarks, emphasizing the crucial role of genuine and high-quality fabrics in the growth of the textile industry, highlighting that promoting Philippine textiles goes beyond aesthetics and creativity but also ensures authenticity and tangible benefits for Filipino communities. This was reinforced in a keynote address from Senator Lorna Regina “Loren” B. Legarda, delivered by Dr. Leaño, where she called on innovators, manufacturers, designers, and environmental advocates to unite in advancing the sustainability of the Philippine textile industry. She stressed the need to integrate environmental responsibility, cultural preservation, and economic resilience into the industry’s foundation, urging stakeholders to seize the opportunity to drive meaningful change.
One of the key discussions of the day was the Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) Technical Committee Panel Discussion, which highlighted the industry’s accomplishments, challenges, and future plans. Mr. Jo-Dann N. Darong, Assistant Director of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Bureau of Competitive Development, emphasized the importance of consumer vigilance in ensuring high-quality textile products. Mr. Arnold Atienza, Executive Director of the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority – Department of Agriculture, addressed the pressing need for more raw materials in the local industry, noting that while a significant portion of production is geared toward exports, strengthening local supply chains requires a collaborative effort. Atty. Katherine Limare-Delmoro, Director IV of the Civil Service Commission’s Commission Secretariat and Liaison Office, reassured that government agencies are continuously being informed on how to effectively procure Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) to ensure compliance with national policies. Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr., Director IV of DOST-PTRI, called on the private sector to take a more active role in reestablishing and expanding businesses within the country, with the government playing a key role in driving this growth.
In a significant announcement, DOST-PTRI unveiled its plans to launch the Non-Wovens Innovation Program in 2025, focusing on applications in industries such as footwear manufacturing. This initiative aims to harness the country’s abundant textile resources through strategic partnerships and research-driven innovations. With TELACon 2025 serving as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, the discussions on Day 2 highlighted the potential of the Philippine textile industry to drive sustainable innovation and enhance global competitiveness.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. also underscored the importance of transitioning to a circular economy, emphasizing that sustainability does not require disruptive overhauls but rather a shift in mindset, clear goals, and commitment. He cited examples of small, deliberate actions making a significant impact, such as the adoption of eco-friendly care labels, low-impact dyes, and Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF), as well as responsible sourcing and streamlined manufacturing. The shift towards sustainability, he noted, must be a collective effort across sectors, fostering a value chain that benefits all while bridging economic and social divides. Secretary Solidum further shared that on February 5, DOST will publicly launch eight high-impact, big-ticket R&D programs for socio-economic development, including the Circular Economy initiative, which integrates science, technology, and innovation to drive a sustainable, green economy.
As government agencies, private sector players, and industry stakeholders continue to work together, the vision of a stronger and more sustainable textile sector is steadily taking shape. With new technologies, a growing awareness of sustainability, and a stronger policy framework supporting homegrown innovations, the Philippine textile industry is poised for transformative growth. (NELSON SANTOS)
