First natural dyeing facility now open in Batangas

The first natural dyes hub in the country has been officially opened to the public. The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) led the inauguration ceremony of the Natural Dyes Processing and Dyeing Facility last December 6. Housed in the Natural Craft Connection Enterprise (NCCE) in PurokKamagong, Brgy. Inicbulan, Bauan, Batangas, the facility will produce and sell natural dyestuff and cater to the dyeing service requirements of the textile and allied industries such as handicrafts as it aims to spur growth of the Philippine natural dyes industry.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by DOST Undersecretary Brenda L. Nazareth-Manzano, DOST-PTRI Director Celia B. Elumba, DOST-PCIEERD Deputy Executive Director Raul C. Sabularse, DOST-CALABARZON Regional Director Alexander R. Madrigal, PSTC Batangas Provincial Director Felina C. Malabanan, Batangas Governor Executive Secretary Emma Pasatiempo, and NCCE Proprietor Pedro M. Polo Jr. Also present were the partner-collaborators and stakeholders from the government, academe, private institutions, enterprises, and friends from the media.

Natural dyes have been deeply rooted in the culture and tradition of the country. But because of the increasing demand and technology development, others resorted to synthetic dyes. This establishment of hub is an effort to promote the use of natural dyes. As said by Dir. Elumba, it is no secret that the collective efforts and commitment of the primary researcher, supplier, and stakeholders are all needed to make this project a success.

Looking forward, Usec. Nazareth-Manzano and Dir. Madrigal challenged everyone to further innovate the use of natural dyes in digital printing, food processing, and intelligent fiber for modern fabrics as dye indicator.

This project is under the collaboration of DOST-PTRI (project implementer), NCCE (private partner), and DOST-PCIEERD (funding agency). The NCCE is also a DOST-CALABARZON’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) beneficiary.

DOST officials with NCCE proprietor led the ribbon cutting ceremony for the inauguration of the NatDyes Hub in Batangas