The relentless research and development (R&D) efforts of the Philippine Textile Research Institute on the utilization of indigenous fibers such as abaca, banana and pineapple for textiles has led to the development of indigenous fiber-blended fabrics known as Philippine Tropical Fabric (PTF).  The developed fabrics which are suitable for varied end uses has gained the acceptance of both local and foreign designers, uniform manufacturers and the selected homelinen industry.

No less than President Gloria M. Arroyo acknowledged the developed PTF when she signed into law Republic Act 9242 prescribing all government officials and employees to use Philippine tropical fabrics for their uniform and other textile purposes.  PTRI is representing the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the committee composed of Civil Service Commission (CSC), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and DOST tasked to formulate the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) ft he said law, in consultation with the private sectors.  The group is now into the finalization of the said IRR.

Simultaneously, the garment manufacturers expressed interest in using the developed local fabrics for corporate wear.  The Uniform Manufacturers Organization and Designers Association (UNIMODA) has decided to include the fabrics in its product lines and establish/create market for the products which could finally trigger the interest and confidence of the textile millers to commercialize yarns and fabrics.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in its desire to support the implementation and realization of the government's proclamation on the use of PTF for uniforms and at the same time promote the commercialization of a product resulting from one of the DOST-RDI's developed technologies is spearheading its use.  As the generator of the technology, PTRI with DOST assistance is taking the initiative to produce the required volume of Philippine tropical fabrics for uniforms of the 4,393 DOST officials and employees in cooperation with private spinning and weaving mills.  The uniforms are expected to be available early next year.