Weaving a sustainable future

The Philippine textile industry is looking ahead, and the future is circular. At the 2025 National Textile Convention (TELACon), held at the Philippine International Convention Center, the focus was clear: Weaving circularity into the very fabric of the industry. 

Hosted by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DoST-PTRI) as part of Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month, TELACon 2025 brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to explore sustainable textile production through circular design principles.

“So, basically, the whole concept of plastic credit is kind of similar to carbon credits, but the main goal is for the polluter to be responsible for their waste. It’s a way for them to be able to channel their funding, but at the same time, also ensure that they’re really channeling it into projects that have an impact. So, basically, what we did as an organization is develop a standard where we have certain requirements that recyclers or plastic collectors would have to adhere to, and then per volume of waste that they’re able to divert or collect away from nature, there’s a corresponding value. So the end goal there, or what happens after, is [that] the private sector [is] able to finance the things happening on the ground,” shared Ralph Cuazon, Standards and Technology assistant manager, PCX Solutions.

Under the theme “Weaving Circularity,” the convention served as a platform for innovators, designers, manufacturers, environmental advocates and policymakers to delve into the intricacies of a circular textile economy.  The goal: To minimize waste, maximize resource reuse and drastically reduce the environmental footprint of the industry. TELACon 2025 aimed to accelerate the Philippine textile industry’s transition towards a regenerative and self-reliant model, aligning with Proclamation 313, which designates January as Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month.

“We hope that there will be more conversations about circularity and textiles that we can do in the future. And I think it really emanates and starts from everyone — from consumer to small business owner to include circularity in their business model. We [PTRI] are here to provide the data because science is very objective, and I think that is also what we want our business owners to espouse... that we will be backed up by science in terms of what it is,” Jenneli Caya, Supervising Science Research Specialist DoST-PTRI, said.

Building on the momentum of previous TELACon events, this year’s convention emphasized the crucial intersection of science, technology — and sustainability.  Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr., director of DoST-PTRI, articulated the institute’s commitment: “This year’s TELACon highlights our commitment to sustainability in the textile sector. By weaving circularity into every aspect of textile production and embracing innovative business models, we aim to create a more responsible and sustainable future. This event is an opportunity for the Philippines to lead in circular design and continue its role as a global leader in textile practices.”

Unpacking circularity

The convention’s first day provided a comprehensive overview of a whole-of-value-chain circularity framework.  Sessions like “SusTELAbility: Fostering a Circular Economy” explored closed-loop systems, upcycling and life-cycle analysis (LCA) as tools for assessing the environmental and socio-economic impacts of textiles. 

“Science, Technology and Innovation as Drivers to Textile Circular Economy” showcased the power of technological advancements in achieving sustainability goals, addressing challenges like waste reduction and resource efficiency through practical case studies. The presentation of LCA research on cotton and silk yarns offered valuable insights into more sustainable production practices.

The Circular Economy Forum provided a platform for discussions on governance and national policy frameworks, featuring perspectives from organizations like the United Nations Development Programme, NEDA and the Department of Finance. 

“Our community really wanted was to actually rehome or offload a lot of the excess clothes. From that experience, it was really clear that fast fashion brands are part of our lives already and they’re here to stay. As an organization, and as a community, we need to figure out how we can work with them instead of pretending that they don’t exist or pretending that people have stopped engaging with them. We’re always looking for designers and fashion upcycling designers to collaborate. Keeping the conversation and keeping the communication sort of interactive is the way to go for us,” said Jessie Jiang, co-founder and CEO, Basically Borrowed.

Partnerships and Programs

Day two of TELACon 2025 was marked by exciting announcements of strategic partnerships and program launches.  Dr. Leaño said: “Through partnerships with key organizations and government agencies, we aim to showcase how Philippine textiles can meet modern demands. This is not just about sustainability; it’s about national pride, economic growth, and elevating the global perception of Filipino craftsmanship.”

A significant partnership was unveiled with Cebu Pacific Air, aimed at promoting Philippine textiles and destinations through the airline’s platform. This collaboration will showcase local weaves, celebrating Filipino craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

Several key initiatives were also launched, including the Halal Textile Science and Technology Program, the strengthened Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub (in partnership with Timpuyog Dagiti Mannalon Ti Casilagan and the Health, Education, Environment and Discipleship Foundation) and a research collaboration with UP-Diliman on bamboo textiles.  DOST-PTRI also announced partnerships with Creative Definitions to explore alternative leather materials from natural fibers like pineapple, and with HeArteFino to empower local artisans in developing innovative products using Philippine Tropical Fabrics.

Discussions also focused on the future of Philippine Tropical Fabrics, including their potential use in government uniforms and military applications.

The convention culminated in the KatHABI Fashion Innovation Show, showcasing government-appropriate uniforms made from Philippine Tropical Fabrics.  The show highlighted the versatility and modern appeal of local textiles, aligning with RA 9242, which mandates their use in government uniforms.

TELACon 2025 served as a powerful catalyst for change, propelling the Philippine textile industry towards a more sustainable and circular future. Through innovation, collaboration and a renewed focus on responsible practices, the convention showcased the potential for Philippine textiles to thrive in a globalized and environmentally conscious world.  As the industry embraces circularity, TELACon will undoubtedly continue to play a vital role in shaping a vibrant and sustainable future for Philippine textiles.