Officials of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Science and Technology in the Negros Island Region (DOST-NIR) on Friday called for stronger collaboration to revive and sustainably develop the local fiber industry.

During the opening of the 2026 Buglasan Trade Fair at Robinsons mall here, officials underscored the need to create more growth opportunities and expand market access for local fiber producers.

DTI-NIR Acting Director Esperanza Melgar said collaboration is crucial to help local entrepreneurs improve their products, strengthen their businesses, and reach wider markets.

“This trade fair is a gathering that not only showcases the remarkable creativity and craftsmanship of our local entrepreneurs, but also highlights the rich cultural heritage and immense economic potential of Negros Oriental,” Melgar said.

“This is precisely the kind of potential we at DTI are fully committed to nurturing.”

Melgar said DTI remains committed to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through programs that boost competitiveness, develop market-ready products, and create opportunities for sustainable growth.

She said the trade fair also highlights the traditions, ingenuity, and perseverance of local producers striving to improve their livelihoods and support their families and communities.

The expo showcases locally made crafts, home and lifestyle products, and woven textiles made from natural fibers such as abaca, coconut coir, piña (pineapple fiber), sinamay (natural straw fabric made from the processed stalks of the abaca or Manila hemp) and cotton.

Meanwhile, DOST-NIR Regional Director Dr. Naomi Cossette Luis announced plans for the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) to establish a regional yarn production and innovation center, and a national textile fiber innovation hub in Negros Occidental.

Luis said the facilities would allow the region to process locally sourced cotton, abaca, and other natural fibers into yarn, rather than transport them to PTRI in Manila.

The initiative is expected to help local loom weavers access locally processed natural fibers as alternatives to synthetic materials.

“On behalf of DOST, I would like to pledge our support for the development of this industry in Negros Oriental,” Luis said.

DTI-Negros Oriental Director Juliet Banogon said the trade fair’s return after a nine-year hiatus aims to revitalize the local fiber sector and create more opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Banogon thanked the organizers and sponsors for helping to bring back the event and assured that the DTI would continue supporting initiatives to develop and expand the industry.

Twenty-five exhibitors are participating in the trade fair until Oct. 22. (PNA)