Vintar: Handloom weavers, farmers, and local artisans are celebrating the establishment of the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) in this town, marking it as a pivotal development in strengthening the local textile industry and fostering new economic opportunities for communities involved in natural fiber production.
According to Philippines News Agency, the project is funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) to promote and support sustainable textile livelihoods and technology-based enterprise opportunities. The grand launch of RYPIC in Barangay Parut was led by DOST Secretary Renato Solidum and provincial officials, and the facility is expected to produce up to 40 tons of natural textile fiber-blended yarns annually.
Equipped with modern technology, the center will provide technical training, research, and innovation to enhance local yarn production and improve the quality of textile products made from locally sourced natural fibers such as abaca, bamboo, cotton, pineapple, and banana. These fibers are plentiful in the Ilocos Region and nearby provinces of Cagayan and Apayao.
Local farmers' organizations expressed optimism that the facility will create more opportunities to grow fiber crops with a reliable market due to its accessibility. Weavers and textile artisans believe that access to high-quality, locally produced yarn will enhance the craftsmanship, consistency, and competitiveness of their products in both domestic and international markets. Weaver Perlita Domingo, 66, stated, "We look forward to using the locally produced yarn so that we will no longer buy from others."
In his address, Solidum urged all stakeholders, both public and private, to ensure the project's sustainability as it serves as a hub for research, product development, skills training, and technology transfer. The facility is set to support farmers, cooperatives, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and weaving communities by promoting innovation and value-added processing.
Solidum praised Vintar Mayor Richard Degala for his efforts in supporting the facility, particularly by engaging with weavers and farmer-producers to plant cotton and other fiber crops like bamboo. He emphasized the facility's reflection of the Marcos administration's commitment to advancing textile innovation and inclusive development.
Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Angelo Marcos Barba expressed confidence that the center will contribute to job creation, increased incomes, and ongoing development of the natural fiber and textile industry, while positioning the region as a key producer of quality yarn and textile products. "Through research and development, RYPIC Ilocos Norte is truly an investment in people, creating sustainable opportunities while promoting the growth of the local textile sector and our cultural heritage," he said.
