He Philippine Center in New York became a hotbed of cultural and technological convergence as it hosted KatHABI: A Textile Innovation Exhibit from June 25-28 and the KatHABI Fashion Innovation Event on June 27. Organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) in collaboration with the Philippine Consulate General in New York and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in New York, the two events marked the debut of Philippine textile innovation on the international stage.
KatHABI, a portmanteau of the Filipino words Katha (invention or composition) and Habi (weaving), celebrates the masterful creation of textiles through the skillful composition of innovative materials, sustainable processes and technologies.
The exhibition showcased the latest innovations in textiles and apparel made from blended natural textile fibers such as abaca, pineapple, bamboo, Philippine silk and natural dyes.
At the center of the exhibition are the transformation of natural textile fibers (NTFs) and research and development (R&D) outcomes from major DOST-PTRI programs such as Fostering the Revitalization of Nascent Textile Innovations Ecosystems (FRONTIER), Bamboo Textile PH, Natural Dyes, SEDA Pilipinas (Silk), and Shoes and Footwear Accessories from the R&D on Textile-based Omnibus Solutions for the Philippine Shoe Industry Program (SAFATOS). These sustainable materials align with global trends toward green and sustainable fashion, offering environmentally friendly alternatives in the textile industry.
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Meanwhile, the fashion innovation event featured the latest collections of renowned Filipino-American fashion designer Anthony Cruz Legarda and acclaimed Filipino fashion icon Avel Bacudio. Legarda, known for his distinctive style that blends traditional Filipino weaves with contemporary fashion, presented his new creations such as Haute Culture, Kawayarn, and TechStyle. These collections are crafted from DOST-PTRI’s Research and Development (R&D) programs and were designed using the Institute’s technology.
In his welcome speech during the fashion show, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile stated, “The Philippines has long been a cradle of creativity, with a vibrant and dynamic creative industry that continues to thrive. The Philippine Fiber and Textile Promotion Program being conducted by the Philippine Consulate represents our commitment to this industry. This multi-year initiative aims to promote and develop our plant-based fibers, fabrics, and textiles. Through this program, we highlight how our traditional materials and techniques can be transformed and elevated through innovation, embodying the spirit of Filipinnovation.”
The exhibition featured the latest innovations in textiles and clothing made from natural textile fibres.
DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius Leaño, Jr. highlighted that the KatHABI Textile Innovation Expo and Fashion Innovation Event were platforms to share the many stories and experiences of DOST-PTRI, highlighting the defining and pivotal role of science, technology, and innovation in the context of the Philippines’ rich textile heritage, and DOST-PTRI’s relationships with Filipino weavers and communities.
KatHABI marks an important milestone for Philippine textiles as it introduced the world to exquisite designs crafted by leading Filipino fashion designers, celebrating both innovation and tradition in one of the world’s fashion capitals. The events showcased the creativity and craftsmanship of Filipino artisans while opening up new avenues for collaboration and growth in the global textile industry.
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