VINTAR, Ilocos Norte—Ilocos Norte is set to become Northern Luzon’s hub for textile research and development with the forthcoming opening of the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC), locally known as “Panait ni Siwawer,” on November 20, 2025.
The partnership for the establishment of the center was formally sealed through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed on October 16, 2025 in Vintar, Ilocos Norte, between the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, and the Municipality of Vintar.
The facility, the first of its kind in Northern Luzon and the third in the entire country, forms part of DOST-PTRI’s program titled “Fostering the Revitalization of Nascent Textile Innovation Ecosystems in the Region.” It aims to strengthen the textile value chain by enabling the production of natural yarns from locally sourced fibers such as bamboo, cotton, abaca, and pineapple.
Once operational, “Panait ni Siwawer” will serve as a regional hub for research, innovation, and production in the textile industry, providing local weavers, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs with access to modern yarn-making technologies and sustainable textile solutions.
In her message, Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos expressed her pride in the province’s continued commitment to empowering local industries through innovation and collaboration.
“Back when I was vice governor, we launched ‘Mercato ni Nanay Ces’, where we proudly featured our local weavers and supported micro and small entrepreneurs in showcasing their products. That same spirit continues today as we pursue innovation that empowers our people and honors our heritage,” Araneta-Marcos said.
DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius L. Leano, Jr. emphasized that the project bridges science and traditional craftsmanship to promote innovation and preserve cultural identity, while DOST– Region I Director Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog noted that the partnership marks a breakthrough for Northern Luzon in fostering inclusive growth and sustainable livelihood opportunities for Ilocano communities.
Officials from the Municipality of Vintar likewise expressed staunch support for the project, noting that the center will generate new employment opportunities and help preserve the region’s weaving heritage.
With “Panait ni Siwawer” set to open on November 20, 2025, Ilocos Norte is poised to lead Northern Luzon’s drive toward a modern, inclusive, and sustainable textile innovation ecosystem, where technology uplifts tradition and empowers local creativity. (Mariell J. Pahinag, PGIN-PIO`)
