Former Senator and Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda (FILE)
MANILA, Philippines — House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda has cited the need to support the country’s tropical fabrics industry to harness its benefits on other industries.
The three-term senator is pushing for the strengthened implementation of Republic Act No. 9242 or The Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law, which she principally authored, as it will expand the tropical fabrics industry and support the agricultural and industrial sectors, as well as the local and indigenous weavers and artisans.
“It will also create diversity in the textile and fashion industry, which will give Filipino fashion designers and garment manufacturers more choices in textiles to use,” according to Legarda.
Former Senator and Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda (FILE)
She said the tropical fabrics industry has huge potential in the world market citing the Philippines’ vast reserves of raw materials such as pineapple, banana, abaca fibers, and even the local artisans themselves.
“We have to sustain research and development efforts while we bolster the promotion of our textiles because we still have a lot to show to the global stage in terms of distinctiveness of designs and craftsmanship,” noted Legarda, who is staging a Senate comeback via the elections this May.
“Moreover, we also promote livelihood and employment for our weavers, artisans, local designers, and manufacturers,” she also said.
Former Senator and Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda (FILE)
Legarda further stressed that supporting the tropical fabrics industry will help preserve the country’s rich heritage as indigenous peoples continue to create traditional fabrics and weaves made from resources available in their areas.
“As we celebrate the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month, let us turn this potential into reality and make our local fabrics known to our people and to the world. Let us support our tropical fiber industry and preserve the art of Filipino weaving,” she said.