Baguio:The Philippines is intensifying efforts to expand its silk industry, aiming for self-sufficiency in silk production with nationwide participation, according to Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum. This announcement was made during the 7th Philippine Silk Summit held at Camp John Hay.
According to Philippines News Agency, Solidum emphasized the initiative's goal to integrate silk into the country's textile sector. The former Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) technology center in La Trinidad, Benguet, is set to become an innovation hub for Northern Luzon before the end of the year. This center will provide hybrid silkworm eggs and develop production technology to establish a silk innovation and processing center capable of meeting 17 percent of the national silk demand.
Solidum expressed confidence in achieving self-sufficiency through collaborative efforts, supported by 44 hectares of mulberry plantations and 44 silkworm-rearing houses. This model is planned to be replicated in other regions to bolster domestic silk production.
By the end of 2026, the integrated silk value chain is expected to expand to the Negros Island Region, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga, contributing to the supply of raw materials. The ultimate goal is to produce 100 percent Philippine-made silk textiles, starting from cocoons and transforming them into textiles and designs.
Dr. Julius Leaño, director of the DOST-PTRI and executive director of the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development, stated that the La Trinidad hub would receive an initial budget for its operations. Approximately PHP12 million will be allocated for machines used to reel silk thread from cocoons. The facility, originally built in the 1990s, will undergo upgrades and refurbishments, including the addition of more silkworm-rearing houses, with full operation targeted by the second quarter of 2027.
The facility is designed to process at least 7 kilograms of cocoons, with mulberry plantations capable of producing about 20 kilograms of cocoons every 28 days, allowing up to 12 harvest cycles annually. Silkworms from the Visayas and Mindanao will be brought to Benguet to enhance cocoon production, producing cocoons classified as Grade A.
DOST-Cordillera Administrative Region Director Nancy Bantog highlighted the potential for substantial livelihood opportunities through the silk industry. The center is expected to receive seed funding to purchase silk cocoons from farmers at prices above the prevailing market rates.
