State Policy and Objectives
- The State policy emphasizes promoting products indigenous to the Philippines.
- It encourages the use of locally-developed technologies and local resources.
- The policy aims to generate livelihood opportunities for Filipinos.
- It seeks to advance the promotion of Filipino products in the global market.
Definition of Tropical Fabrics under RA No. 9242
- Tropical fabrics are defined as those made of natural fibers that are produced, spun, woven or knitted, and finished in the Philippines.
- Examples of natural fibers include pineapple, banana, abaca, and Philippine silk.
- These fabrics are intended for use in government office uniforms and other purposes.
Purpose and Impact of RA No. 9242 Implementation
- The implementation is expected to raise awareness about the utilization of local natural fibers.
- It aims to revive and upgrade the local textile and garments industries.
- The law supports livelihood creation in both agricultural and industrial sectors.
Historical Context and Previous Proclamation
- Proclamation No. 86 (2010) declared January 24, 2011 as Philippine Tropical Fabrics Day.
- This event was under the auspices of the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) of the DOST.
- The celebration increased interest in tropical fabrics among local industries.
Need for Sustained Promotion
- There is a recognized need to sustain the gains from initial celebrations.
- Active participation of government institutions and local industries in using Philippine Tropical Fabrics is encouraged.
- The focus is also on promoting local natural fibers.
Role and Directives to PTRI-DOST
- PTRI-DOST is tasked with sourcing funds to support celebrations.
- PTRI-DOST must ensure continued research on the effective use of local natural fibers.
- It is responsible for organizing meaningful activities to celebrate Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month.
- The goal is the sustained development of the local textile industry.
Call to Action for Stakeholders
- All fabric producers, textile manufacturers, garment and geotextile industries, private sector entities, associations, institutions, and the academe are enjoined to actively participate in Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month observance.
- Partnership between private stakeholders and the government is encouraged to promote the evolution of the Philippine textile industry.
- The overall vision is to establish the Philippine textile industry as a leader in the global textile market.