The turnover ceremony for the Ilocos Cotton Processing Center (ICPC) and Weaving & Cotton Processing Center (WCPC) took place on September 5, 2024, in Lumbaan-Bicbica, Pinili, Ilocos Norte. The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), represented by OIC-Executive Director Evelyn B. Cagasan, through the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte officially handed over the facilities to the Lumbaan Weavers and Cotton Producers Cooperative (LWCPC), with their BOD Chairman Lizel S. Galinato accepting on behalf of the cooperative.

Key witness of the official turnover was Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos who expressed her excitement about the processing center’s operations and encouraged further the planting of cotton to raise its economic value in the province. During his speech, Regional Director Edel Dondonilla also urged farmers to increase cotton farm production, underscoring the value of cotton for their families’ welfare.

The ceremony emphasized the importance of boosting local cotton production and the positive impact this project would have on the livelihood of farmers in the region. OIC-Executive Director Cagasan expressed her gratitude to Senator Loren Legarda for her support in the project and voiced hopes for the center’s successful management under the cooperative. Moreover, she conveyed Senator Legarda’s message of continued support for the development of the weaving industry in the region, emphasizing that these facilities will significantly contribute to advancing the weaving industry and improving local economic conditions.

Following the ceremonial ribbon-cutting and facility turnover, Ms. Lizel Galinato delivered an acceptance speech, vowing that the cooperative will manage the center effectively. She further expressed anticipation about the cooperative’s ability to soon produce woven cotton goods directly from their operations. The event concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between PhilFIDA, LGU Pinili, and LWCPC, marking the formal commitment to the continued implementation and success of the project.