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The Philippine Textile Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PTRI) celebrated its 50 years of existence dubbed as “Fabulous @ 50, TELA Pilipinas: Beyond Gold,” at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Roxas Boulevard, Manila on January 27, 2017.

2017 signifies a special milestone for the PTRI half century of initiatives of leading the textile research and development in the country, while marking the institute’s stronger commitment and resolve to continue its mission of rejuvenating and revolutionizing the textile industry in the Philippines.

A Stakeholders’ Conference was held at the Summit Hall of the PICC to kick-off. The conference was a gathering of the institute’s collaborators from the industry and the academe including the technology adaptors from the regions and the countryside

The conference, focusing on the synergy of science, arts and culture, aims to be a venue to exchange experiences and ideas to help the revitalization of the textile industry, as well as explore opportunities for inclusive and environmentally sustainable growth for the stakeholders of the textile industry and its allied sectors.

Dr. Carmen Hijosa, founder of Ananas Anam and creator of a breakthrough material, Pinatex led the roster of the resource speakers. Other speakers included Ms. Lucia Catanes, General Manager of Research and Design of Narda’s Handwoven Arts and Crafts who shared the legacy of Narda Capuyan and the prospects of handwoven natural fibers.

Also included in the roster of speakers was Mr. Chris Torrance, the General Manager of Ambension Silk Enterprise, a social initiative of Filipinos based in the United States, who talked about the future of eco-fashion through inclusive sustainability.

Several testimonials from beneficiaries of various PTRI services, highlighting the impact of PTRI’s support to their businesses were also featured in the program.

Aside from the plenary talks and testimonials, participants were also invited to experience a closer market encounter with PTRI’s partner-weaving communities representing the Regional Handloom Weaving Innovation Centers from eight (8) regions of the country (i.e., CAR, Regions I, ill, IV-B, VI, VII, X and XII), showcasing the textile-related products of their respective regions. Local designers and entrepreneurs also participated in a mini trade exhibit.

The Institute through this event looks forward in establishing more collaboration with academe, enterprises and organization to transfer and adopt proudly Filipino textile-related innovations as well as explore more opportunities to drive research and innovation in the textile industry.

For more information about the PTRI 2017 Stakeholders’ Conference, please contact PTRI’s Technology Transfer, information and Promotions Staff at 837-1338.(PSciJourn MegaManila)(Click picture below to enlarge)(Photo by: Jimmy Camba)

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