On the second day of the 2025 National Textile Convention (TELACon), industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders gathered at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) to discuss advancements and challenges in the Philippine tropical fabric industry. Organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), the event provided a platform for collaboration and innovation.
Pursuant to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to advance fiber sector research, production, and education while seizing new growth opportunities, PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza participated as a panelist in 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 𝟭: 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗮𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 – 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀. He emphasized the critical need to enhance local fiber production to sustain the growing demands of the textile industry. While a substantial portion of the country’s fiber output is allocated for export, he pointed out that the local market continues to struggle with a shortage of raw materials. Addressing this gap, he stressed, requires a collective effort from government agencies, industry leaders, fiber producers, and textile manufacturers.
Calling for stronger collaboration, ED Atienza underscored the importance of a unified approach in strengthening the fiber supply chain. “𝙒𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙙𝙤 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚; 𝙬𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧,” he stated, urging all stakeholders to work toward a more self-sufficient and competitive local textile industry. He reiterated PhilFIDA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that improve fiber production and ensure a stable supply of raw materials for Philippine tropical fabrics.
Beyond the panel discussion, ED Atienza visited the exhibition area, where local weavers from across the country showcased their craftsmanship and traditional weaving techniques. Among the exhibitors was Mr. Mario Manzano of the Bagtason Loom Weavers Association, known for their intricate Sampaguita design in Patadyong weaving, a heritage craft that reflects the rich textile traditions of the Philippines.
ED Atienza expressed strong support for local weavers, recognizing their crucial role in sustaining the textile industry. He reaffirmed PhilFIDA’s dedication to empowering weavers by enhancing fiber production, ensuring market access, and promoting Philippine-made fabrics locally and internationally. He was accompanied by his Special Assistant, Ms. Evelyn B. Cagasan, and PTF TWG members Ms. Concepcion D. Jocson and Ms. Jubille Mae I. Cipriano.
