Natural fibers for textiles sufficient, DA-PhilFIDA assures
Posted on September 14, 2026 | Category: Uncategorized | Hits: 192
The Philippines has more than enough raw materials and demand to support a growing textile industry, but stronger processing capabilities and collaboration are needed to maximize these opportunities, according to Department of Agriculture-Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (DA-PhilFIDA) Executive Director Arnold “Ali” Atienza.
Through his short manifestation at the 1st Global Textile Congress and 2026 Philippine Textile Congress, Atienza emphasized the country has sufficient natural fiber resources and markets, both local and global, but needs to strengthen its capacity to process raw fibers.
“We have more than enough raw materials in the Philippines. We have more than enough demand, both local and global. But what we need in the country is processing,” Atienza said.
Atienza emphasized that strengthening the fiber industry must also benefit farmers, particularly those producing abaca and other natural fibers.
“Nandiyan ang demand, nandiyan ang raw materials. But again, hindi po tayo pwedeng kanya-kanya. Kailangan magtulungan tayo,” he said.
He also pointed to the Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) Law, which provides an existing market for locally produced tropical fabrics through the use of Philippine tropical fabrics in government uniforms. However, Atienza noted that more industry players need to participate and produce products that can meet this demand.
Atienza likewise called for stronger links between government research and industry, stressing that technologies developed through public research should reach the private sector for adoption and commercialization.