TAGUIG CITY, PH — Consul General Neil Frank Ferrer, accompanied by Consul Rowena Pangilinan-Daquipil, paid a courtesy call on Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on July 7 at the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) in Bicutan, Taguig City, to explore avenues for enhanced collaboration in science, technology, and innovation.
Held on the same day as the inauguration of PTRI’s Philippine Handloom Weaving Center, the meeting gathered key DOST officials and stakeholders including Samar Gov. Sharee Ann Tan, Assistant Secretary for Countryside Development Maria Teresa De Guzman, Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) Director Dr. Rico Cabangon, PTRI Director Dr. Julius Leaño, DOST Region VIII Director Dr. John Glenn Ocaña, and Anita Ogrimen of the Basey Association for Native Industry Growth, Inc. (BANIG).
Discussions focused on deepening support for community-based enterprises such as Samar’s weaving industry, particularly the award-winning brand Lara, which has transformed local livelihoods through design innovation and market partnerships. Governor Tan emphasized the brand’s evolution from a small souvenir project to a platform for global exposure and sustainable development, with technical assistance from DOST.
Ferrer expressed appreciation for DOST’s ongoing collaboration with the Consulate, particularly through cultural-scientific efforts such as The Hinabi Project and support for tech delegations to the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). He welcomed possible partnerships to introduce Lara products to the San Francisco market, in coordination with PTIC-Silicon Valley.
The meeting also featured presentations from PTRI and FPRDI, showcasing the agencies’ work in sustainable textiles, forest products, bamboo innovations, and the use of technology for cultural preservation, environmental protection, and livelihood development.
The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco remains committed to science diplomacy and economic engagement that uplift Philippine innovation, talent, and heritage across the global stage.
