Final article for Publication

March 14, 2019

DOST allocates P41.57M for Yarn Center in Miagao
The first micro-scale yarn spinning facility in the country to produce natural fiber-blended yarns using abaca and
pineapple textile fibers, among others will soon launch as the Department of Science of Technology (DOST VI)
together with Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U), DOST - PTRI Philippine Textile Research Institute,
local government of Miagao, Iloilo and GREAT Women signed an agreement for the Establishment of Regional Yarn
Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) in Miagao, Iloilo last March 8, 2019.
The facility envisions to supply 100% Philippine-made yarns to the local handloom weaving industry, designers and
social enterprises with DOST-PTRI to train first the people who will operate the facility hosted by ISAT U Miagao
Campus which will eventually partner with the GreatWomen Philippines.
Establishment of the said center was funded by DOST allocating P41.57 million as its budget with P29 million part of
the fund to be allotted for purchase textile equipment while the remaining fund will be for the supply and materials
according to DOST VI Regional Director Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga. He further said that this center is one of the
biggest facilities in terms of yarn production outside of DOST- PTRI.

It can be recalled that Miagao was the center for the handwoven textile during the 18th century and that there were
about 4,000 looms in the municipality. However, the decline of the industry was caused by the rise of the sugar
industry and the availability of ready-to-wear. The municipality started a cotton plantation to bring back the tradition
in the 18th century when raw materials were sourced from the town. (DOST6/JRAGabiota)

Department of Science of Technology (DOST VI) signed with Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U), DOST - PTRI Philippine Textile Research
Institute, local government of Miagao, Iloilo and GREAT Women, an agreement for the Establishment of Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center
(RYPIC) in Miagao, Iloilo last March 8, 2019. (Photo: Tela Pilipinas)

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Notes:
Approved for press release/posting:

MA. ALICIA SOLEDAD A. SALAZAR

Unit Head, KMU

Date: