09/05/2026
Runruno Weavers Level Up: RRLWS ABEL RIPO Completes Advanced Handloom Weaving Training with DOST-PTRI
QUEZON, Nueva Vizcaya – The traditional weaving community of Runruno recently achieved a significant milestone in craftsmanship and innovation. The Runruno Retro Loom Weaving Services (RRLWS) ABEL RIPO successfully concluded a specialized training program on "Advanced Handloom Weaving Using Cotton Thread," held from May 4 to 8, 2026.
The intensive five-day workshop was facilitated by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) in Taguig City. Aimed at elevating the technical skills of local weavers, the training provided participants with modern techniques in handling cotton threads to produce higher-quality, more intricate, and market-competitive textile outputs.
The realization of this capacity-building initiative was made possible through the dedicated support of the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) of Nueva Vizcaya. The PSTO played a pivotal role by endorsing the RRLWS ABEL RIPO to the national institute, effectively bridging the community with the expertise and resources of DOST-PTRI.
In a statement following the event, representatives from RRLWS ABEL RIPO expressed their profound gratitude to the agencies involved.
The participants highlighted the unique teaching approach of the PTRI team, noting that the trainers fostered an environment of open communication and continuous learning. "Thanks to the patient and approachable trainers of DOST-PTRI, they let us feel free to ask and stayed motivated, even during the delicate stages of the weaving process," Ms. Ferlita Erasquin added.
The project’s infrastructure also received a significant boost through the collaboration of key stakeholders. The RRLWS ABEL RIPO extended their gratitude to the BLGU Runruno and FCF Minerals Corporation for funding the acquisition of six additional floor looms and the construction of a dedicated weaving production building, supported through the company’s Annual Social Development and Management Program (ASDMP).
RRLWS ABEL RIPO is also grateful for the continued support of DTI Nueva Vizcaya by providing one unit of handloom machine and a supply of quality thread as essential resources that enable the weavers to produce more, as well as for the assistance in marketing and product development.
