The Bangsamoro Government’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) conducted a Technology Fora Caravan in Parang, Sulu, on August 16-17, 2024. The event aimed to promote and enhance the local handwoven textile industry in Parang through a pioneering partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI). The partnership marks the first of its kind for this community and seeks to develop textile technology and processes for local adoption.

The TechnoFora Caravan, designed to introduce innovative technologies to potential adopters, was brought to Sulu as part of this outreach. The first day began with a dialogue among key stakeholders, including representatives from MOST, led by Monawara Abdulbadie, Chief Science Research Specialist of the Science and Technology Services Division, and the DOST-PTRI team headed by Evangeline Manalang, Supervising Science Research Specialist of the Technology Transfer, Information, and Promotion Section. The Municipal Government of Parang was represented by Municipal Administrator Abubakar Loong Jr., while Barangay Guimba Lagasan was represented by Barangay Treasurer Misba Abdulkadil. Faculty members from Sulu State College (SSC) and Mindanao State University – Sulu (MSU-Sulu) also participated, along with the Guimba Lagasan Hoblon Weavers Association, led by their president, Nohana Moh. Hasim.

During the forum, MOST expressed its commitment to boosting Parang’s weaving industry through this initiative. DOST-PTRI presented their existing programs and services related to textile production and highlighted potential ventures for the local community. SSC and MSU-Sulu reaffirmed their dedication to improving the livelihood of the community through research and development. The Guimba Lagasan Hoblon Weavers Association discussed the challenges they face in advancing their craft, while Barangay Treasurer Abdulkadil emphasized the importance of preserving traditional Tausug weaving practices. Municipal Administrator Abubakar Loong Jr. reiterated the local government’s continued support for the weaving sector.

On the second day, discussions focused on specific opportunities for the community. Ms. Cheryl Lopez of DOST-PTRI’s Silk Research and Innovation Center in Misamis Oriental presented the prospects of sericulture in the BARMM region, highlighting the need for more silk producers to meet national demand. Mr. Anghel Uldo of DOST-PTRI’s Technology Transfer, Information, and Promotion Section introduced technology-based livelihood funding opportunities and discussed existing technologies that could benefit the weavers of Guimba Lagasan. The barangay is renowned for producing the traditional Tausug Pis Syabit, a vibrant, geometric textile with deep cultural significance that continues to be the primary product of the community.

The event concluded with representatives from MOST, DOST-PTRI, and SSC visiting the Guimba Lagasan weaving center to assess the current state of the industry and identify technological needs that could help improve their operations. This groundbreaking partnership between MOST and DOST-PTRI is expected to serve as a catalyst for the advancement of traditional weaving, not only in Sulu but across the entire BARMM region, which is known for its rich tradition in handwoven fabrics.

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