Bacolod: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is encouraging residents of Negros Occidental to support locally produced handwoven textiles as the nation celebrates Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month. This initiative aims to promote traditional weaving practices and bolster the local textile industry.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DTI-Negros Occidental has expressed its commitment to backing the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) in this advocacy. This initiative also coincides with the 59th founding anniversary of the PTRI.

DTI-Negros Occidental trade-industry development specialist Gabriel Advincula highlighted the significance of emphasizing local fabric production, noting its contribution to the economy and its role in showcasing Filipino creativity globally. "These are the livelihoods of many Filipino artisans or weavers. Fibers can be made into textile through traditional weaving. Each woven fabric tells a story of the identity of the community where it came from," Advincula explained.

The province of Negros Occidental is home to various traditional textile productions, including Philippine silk from Bago City and pi±a fiber from Don Salvador Benedicto. Additionally, pandan leaves are crafted into bags and mats in Calatrava and Toboso, while San Carlos City hosts a small abaca production industry.

Advincula further emphasized the role of the traditional weaving industry in supporting livelihoods and inspiring future generations to take pride in their cultural heritage and continue the tradition. The theme for the 2026 Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month, "Stitching Futures," underscores the potential for local fibers-such as pineapple, musa, bamboo, and abaca-to make a significant impact on the global market.

The DTI also noted, "By integrating science with trade, we are empowering our local weavers and micro, small and medium enterprises to weave a more competitive and sustainable future."