Around 100 weavers in Muntinlupa City can now sustain year-round production of native crafts after receiving an Eco-Dryer facility developed by the Department of Science and Technology’s Forest Products Research and Development Institute.

The drying facility, formally turned over on 4 February 2026 through a partnership among DOST-NCR, DOST-FPRDI and Maynilad Water Services Inc., is expected to address long-standing production disruptions caused by the rainy season.

For years, the weavers under the Gender and Development Office of Muntinlupa City struggled with unpredictable weather that left harvested water hyacinth vulnerable to mold and rot. This resulted in wasted raw materials, stalled operations and income gaps during prolonged rains.

Water hyacinth, one of the fastest-growing freshwater plants in the world, is widely used in sustainable handcrafted products. However, its potential has been limited by drying challenges, especially during wet months.

The Eco-Dryer delivers consistent and reliable drying, ensuring harvested water hyacinth is ready for weaving regardless of weather conditions. With the new facility, the community can now consistently produce bags, bayongs, trays, placemats, slippers and coasters.

"Our mission is to ensure that science serves as a bridge to prosperity, making the concept of Agham na Ramdam a daily reality for Filipino families," stated DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. "By using this drying system, Muntinlupa weavers can overcome the barriers of nature so they can focus on their craft and compete in the global market with confidence and pride."

Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy B. Biazon said the project transforms an environmental challenge into an economic opportunity.

"This project proves that when science, environmental responsibility, and innovation come together, we create real and lasting impact. What was once seen as a problem is now an opportunity," Mayor Biazon said. "Through this partnership, we are not only addressing an environmental challenge, we are strengthening livelihoods and giving our weavers the stability they deserve. This is the kind of convergence we want to continue: solutions that are practical, sustainable, and centered on uplifting every Muntinlupeño."

For Maynilad, the initiative aligns with its environmental and social commitments in communities surrounding Laguna Lake.

“Maynilad supports this initiative in partnership with DOST-FPRDI and the City Government of Muntinlupa to help promote sustainable livelihood opportunities linked to water and the environment,” said Marie Antonette H. De Ocampo, Head of Corporate Affairs and Communication of Maynilad Water Services Inc. “With Laguna Lake as one of our water sources, efforts like this highlight the value of environmental stewardship while helping local communities sustain their income.”

According to DOST-FPRDI, the Eco-Dryer features a simplified heating system that reduces fabrication costs by 60 percent and biomass consumption by 35 percent compared to conventional models.

“By maximizing heat distribution and retention, the system allows weavers to achieve consistent drying temperatures without the need for high volumes of firewood,” explained Engr. Wency H. Carmelo, Supervising Science Research Specialist of DOST-FPRDI.

DOST-FPRDI experts are scheduled to conduct technology demonstrations and training sessions to ensure proper operation and maintenance of the facility.

“At DOST-FPRDI, we see our role as supporting the real champions of this effort—the community weavers who are reshaping their environment through their craft," said DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon. "We hope to help our partners in Muntinlupa achieve levels of productivity that were once out of reach during the rainy season."

The Forest Products Research and Development Institute is an attached agency of DOST that provides science-based and innovative solutions to support human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection and sustainability.