The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Negros Oriental has rolled out interventions, including an industry-wide fiber mapping, to strengthen the province’s natural fiber sector and expand its market reach.
Krystle Jade Bato, DTI-Negros Oriental spokesperson and chief of the Consumer Protection Division, told the Philippine News Agency on Monday that the agency, in collaboration with other government institutions, is helping local producers improve product quality, designs, and market access.
“A year ago, there was a very intensive fiber industry mapping in Negros Oriental to identify the different types of fiber available in the province, as well as the volume and skills available,” Bato said.
The mapping has paved the way for skills training in various weaving techniques, product development, design enhancement, identification of potential partners, and technology transfer, she said.
The initiative also identified weavers, processors, and fiber users, including designers of evening gowns and other products that use natural materials.
Bato said local fiber products in Negros Oriental now have a more distinct presence at trade fairs, unlike in the past when they were generally grouped under wearables and home styles.
“Now there is a specific strand for local natural fiber,” she said.
She also cited Republic Act No. 9242, or the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law, which requires government officials and employees to use locally produced tropical fabrics for their official uniforms.
Other DTI interventions include market matching, providing consultants to help improve product designs, and linking local producers with suppliers.
Meanwhile, Nena Locsin, head of the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) in Negros Oriental, called for stronger promotion and sustained support for the province’s natural fiber industry.
She said Negros Oriental has various natural fiber resources, including abaca, coco coir, piña, sisal, and cotton, which could be further developed into marketable products.
“We have it all; we can develop these fibers, but we really need the support, especially from the local government units and national government agencies so we can strengthen and sustain this industry and the livelihood of this particular sector,” Locsin said.
She said the Negros Oriental Fiber Industry Alliance brings together government agencies, including the DTI, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), along with academic institutions such as Negros Oriental State University and Foundation University.
The alliance pools resources and expertise to support the development and sustainability of the local fiber industry. (PNA)
