A new chapter in Philippine textile heritage begins as the DOST-Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) opens the country’s first Philippine Handloom Weaving Center on July 7 at the DOST Compound in Bicutan, Taguig.
More than just a facility, this new center is a celebration of Filipino artistry and ingenuity. It’s where heritage meets innovation—bringing age-old weaving traditions into the modern world through science, technology, and design.
Keeping the Tradition Alive
For generations, Filipino weavers have kept alive the art of crafting intricate fabrics—Inabel from the north, Hablon from the Visayas, and the T’nalak of the south, to name a few. But like many traditional crafts, weaving faces challenges in keeping up with modern demands.
This new center seeks to change that. With state-of-the-art equipment and digital pattern-making tools, it aims to breathe new life into the craft. From enhancing weaving techniques to protecting original designs through intellectual property efforts, the center promises to empower both seasoned artisans and young learners alike.
It won’t be doing this alone. The center is part of a larger weaving ecosystem that includes 24 regional weaving hubs spread across the country, all working together to sustain this vital piece of Filipino identity.
Crafting Opportunities
What makes the center even more exciting is that it’s open to everyone. Whether you’re a local weaver, an entrepreneur, or simply someone curious about learning how to weave, the doors are open. Training programs are available (with minimal fees), but consultations and partnerships are encouraged and free of charge.
The goal is simple yet ambitious: to make handloom weaving not just a cultural treasure but also a viable livelihood. By developing skills, improving products, and promoting sustainable materials, the center hopes to help formalize weaving as a recognized technical skill—and, in the process, create more opportunities for Filipinos.
