Silk research hub, dyes center launched soon

The country will have additional Silk Research and Innovation Hubs and Natural Dyes Centers this year, a government agency said recently.

There is a Silk Research and Innovation Hub in Misamis Oriental, and the Department of Science and Technology said this hub will be launched in Aklan and Negros Occidental this year.

To keep Philippine silk cost competitive, the DoST developed a process to generate seven kilos of raw silk per day, requiring 15 hectares of mulberry farm.

During the Philippine Textile Industry Stakeholders’ Conference in Makati City on Thursday, DoST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said the blended textiles made from locally sourced fibers is an illustration of the ability of science to contribute to national economic progress.

Natural textiles, for instance, have expanded from wearable items to nonwoven applications for filtration and automotive, bags and footwear.

The DoST hopes to continue empowering the farmers, community weavers and small businesses, Solidum said.

Developing natural dyes prevent toxic byproducts in textile processing. DoST’s Natural Dyes Centers serve as the core facility for natural dyes research and development.

There are 11 NatDyes Hubs in the country, and the DoST is looking at adding three more this year.

“Innovation powers the future of the textile industry,” Solidum stressed.

For his part, Philippine Textile Research Institute officer in charge Julius Leaño earlier said the Institute has been helping a women cooperative in Occidental Mindoro for the

saluyot (jute leaves) fiber production and textile processing.

“Saluyot has textile fiber that can be used to make threads and cloth. Threads containing

saluyot fiber are strong and show natural color,” Leaño said.

Meanwhile, the conference served as an avenue to showcase locally made textile fibers from pineapple leaf, abaca, banana, and Philippine silk, designed for government officials and employees’ uniforms.