Another innovation milestone has come to Northern Mindanao, as the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST – PTRI) launches the Silk Innovation Hub at Brgy. Imelda, Villanueva, Misamis Oriental on March 02, 2024.
Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay-Angeles, a supporter of the silk industry, led the ribbon cutting and was a guest of honor at the momentous activity.
“Nakakatuwa po na kahit papano yung maliit na tulong natin, malaki naman pala ang nagiging epekto dito katulad po sa nakita natin ngayon, itong facility na bubuksan natin… yung suporta po is patuloy po nating gagawin,” said Sen. Binay during the launching.
[It brings joy knowing that no matter how small our help is, it has a significant impact like what we saw today, this facility that we are going to open… the support that we will do will never stop.]
The Hub houses a complete line of filature equipment that processes cocoons into thrown silk or threads ready for weaving. As it is the first in Mindanao, the Hub completes the silk industry value chain in the area.
The Hub has the capability and machinery to process cocoons, raw silk, and thrown silk yarn. It can produce 7 kilograms of raw silk and 20 kg of thrown silk per 8-hour operation.
Since 2017, DOST – X has implemented initiatives to support the silk industry in the region. Together with DOST – PTRI, there are a total of 14 projects; 2 from Bukidnon, 12 in the city of Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental. The farmers were provided with capacity building and tools to demonstrate the viability of the technology and to promote interest and engagement in the industry. These are small projects or activities in sericulture, handloom weaving, dyeing, and designing.
The addition of the filature facility and the support of leaders and national agencies will greatly impact the sustainability and expansion of the silk industry in the Philippines.
In his opening message, Dr. Julius L. Leaño Jr., director of DOST-PTRI, said, “Now, we are again looking shortly na hopefully within Villanueva, within the TCMO property e magkaroon na rin tayo nang weaving activities and the use of natural dyes for silk as well.” As he eyes for future projects in the silk industry in Mindanao.
Representatives of the Governor of Misamis Oriental, Gov. Peter “Sr. Pedro” M. Unabia, and Congressman of the 2nd district of Misamis Oriental, Hon. Yevgeny Vincente “Bambi” B. Emano, attended the launching of the Silk Hub in support of the Silk Industry in Mindanao.
“Gov. Unabia is one with DOST in establishing innovative solutions that would provide capabilities and support, or give more opportunities to our people,” said Ms. Sheena Faelnar, representative of Gov. Unabia. Michael Van Domingo who represented Hon. Emano also expressed the congressman’s support by highlighting the collaboration between DOST-PTRI and Misamis Oriental as a new era of possibilities and opportunities for the local silk industry.
As Mindanao’s only silk processing and tossing facility, TCMO provided an enlightening opportunity to observe the material transition from technology-assisted agricultural to industrial operations.
Sericulture farmers from the Cagayan de Oro Resettlement Socialized Housing Project (CDORSHP), Balubal Seri Farmers Association, and the Claveria Sericulture Farmers Association joined the launch of the Silk Innovation Hub. (Joshua Robin/DOST 10)
