THE Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), in partnership with the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), launched the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) in Kabacan, Cotabato on June 5, 2026, marking a major milestone within the improvement of Mindanao’s textile industry.
DECENTRALIZING INNOVATION Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute Director Julius Leaño Jr. reveals DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. and friends how the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center in Kabacan, Cotabato create new financial alternatives for farmers, weavers and rural communities throughout Mindanao in the course of the launch on June 5, 2026. DOST-PTRI PHOTO
As the primary facility of its form in Mindanao and the fourth within the nation, RYPIC is anticipated to enhance entry to regionally produced yarn, strengthen regional textile manufacturing, and create new financial alternatives for farmers, weavers, and rural communities throughout the island.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. described the power as a serious step towards decentralizing innovation and bringing technology-driven improvement nearer to communities.
He famous that the institution of RYPIC demonstrates the dedication of DOST-PTRI underneath the Frontier Program to strengthen native industries by way of regional innovation hubs, enabling communities to learn immediately from science and know-how interventions.
The center addresses a rising demand for yarn in Soccsksargen, which DOST-PTRI information identifies as one of the nation’s main areas in handloom weaving communities and working towards weavers.
Strategically positioned in Cotabato, the power is positioned to serve weaving communities throughout Soccsksargen, Northern
Mindanao, the Davao Region and the Zamboanga Peninsula.
According to DOST-PTRI Director Julius Leaño Jr., the launch of RYPIC just isn’t solely about establishing infrastructure but in addition about growing a textile innovation ecosystem that connects fiber producers, yarn producers, weavers, researchers, native governments and industry stakeholders.
Fiber sources embody pineapple leaves from plantations in Polomolok, South Cotabato; abaca from Lake Sebu; and cotton from farms in Sarangani Province, all processed by way of the Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat.