Legarda opens ‘KatHABI: A Textile Innovation Exhibit” in Senate, expresses commitment to promoting PH local textile industry

Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda expressed her strong support towards promoting the local textile industry to advance the country’s growth and development as she joins this year’s National Arts Month through an event called “KatHABI: A Textile Innovation Exhibit.”

Spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), the KatHABI Exhibit showcases the latest innovation when it comes to locally produced natural textile fibers, which aims to celebrate the creation of textiles through the skillful composition of innovative materials, sustainable processes, technologies, and techniques that tells the enduring and inclusive textile story of the Philippines.

As a known advocate of local fabrics and textiles, Legarda emphasized the need to enhance collaborative partnerships to uphold the potential of local textiles anchored in further driving innovations, empowering communities, and advocating for a more sustainable future for all Filipinos.

“As we witness the fruits of our collaboration on display today, I am filled with hope and optimism for the future of the Philippine textile industry. I am confident that our collective efforts will inspire further advancements and pave the way for a more sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant textile sector,” Legarda conveyed.

The four-term senator stated that the exhibit not only represents the culmination of collaborative efforts between concerned agencies and sectors but also highlights three key areas of innovation that can promote the said industry’s potential in the country’s socio-economic aspects.

These include the presentation of the Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) Uniforms, which echoes the commitment to promote local textile production and supporting livelihoods to Filipino farmers, weavers, and artisans, as anchored to Republic Act No. 9242 authored by Legarda that prescribes the use of PTFs among public officials and employees.

The exhibit also presented the potential of bamboo in textile production as a renewable and eco-friendly resource, which the senator considered a significant stride towards building a sustainable and resilient textile industry.

Likewise, the KatHABI also featured the Natural Dyes as an effective way to promote environment-friendly practices in textile manufacturing. Legarda considered this a way of embracing the country’s rich biodiversity as a source of inspiration and innovation.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to the DOST-Philippine Textile Research Institute, our valued partners, stakeholders, and all those who have contributed to making this exhibit a reality. Let us continue to work together towards a future where innovation, sustainability, and cultural heritage converge to create a legacy that will benefit generations to come,” Legarda concluded. (End)