The Taguig City government signed an agreement with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST – PTRI) to provide technology-based textile livelihood opportunities for residents.
The partnership was signed on Feb. 1 at the Mercado de Lago Pavillion in Barangay Lower Bicutan.
Under the agreement, the DOST-PTRI will introduce technology to turn water hyacinth into textile fiber, teach handloom weaving using PTRI-designed machines, provide equipment, and offer technical assistance, skills training, and business development support.
The local government of Taguig, on the other hand, will provide space for the machines, training venues, and identify beneficiaries.
According to Mayor Laarni Cayetano, the partnership aims to address environmental issues related to water hyacinths and provide livelihood opportunities for disadvantaged and displaced workers.
DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius Leaño Jr., highlighted the importance of technology, particularly textiles, for vulnerable sectors such as women, youth, persons with disabilities, and even the urban poor.
Mayor Cayetano emphasized that the partnership is aligned with Taguig’s agenda to be a Transformative, Lively, and Caring City,
“This program will help us stay true to our desire to introduce Taguig as your Probinsyudad in the National Capital Region, where history and modernization can coexist,” she said.