MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), together with nine local manufacturers, is advancing the adoption of Philippine-made nonwoven textile technology through the launch of ONWARD: Philippine Nonwoven Textile Innovations, showcasing its applications in furniture, fashion, apparel, transportation, agriculture, construction, healthcare, and other emerging industries while expanding the country’s textile capabilities beyond traditional woven fabrics and opening opportunities for high-value manufacturing.
The initiative positions the country to participate in the rapidly growing global nonwovens market by transforming locally sourced natural fibers into advanced materials for industrial and consumer applications. It also marks DOST-PTRI’s next chapter in textile innovation after decades of advancing woven Philippine textiles. ONWARD now serves as the Institute’s brand for nonwoven textiles.
Nine local manufacturers and industry collaborators demonstrated the commercial potential of the technology, integrating DOST-PTRI-developed nonwoven materials into diverse applications during the official launch on July 1 at SM North EDSA.
In the furniture and interior design sector, Jed Yabut Furniture & Design incorporated banana-based nonwoven materials into chair cushions, and pineapple-based nonwoven fibers were used as decorative twine, while also integrating the nonwoven materials into table panels, lampshades, and leather-like strips for chairs. Furniture manufacturer La Likha utilized nonwoven materials in sofa backings and is exploring alternatives to conventional foam and synthetic leather. JunkNot likewise utilized nonwoven materials for chair cushions, home furnishings, and decor pieces, highlighting environmentally conscious design.
One of the country’s most iconic jeepney manufacturers, Sarao Motors, demonstrated how nonwoven materials can reinforce jeepney seat upholstery and cushions to improve durability and passenger comfort, while exploring future applications for dashboards, ceiling panels, and door components. Fivecent Global Corporation showcased agricultural applications through packaging and mulching for plants and fruits, while fashion designer Renz Reyes demonstrated the potential of nonwovens in apparel.
The technology also extends to footwear, fashion accessories, and construction. Longtime partner, Creative Definitions, integrated nonwoven materials into shoe uppers and insoles. Fashion Accessory Makers of the Philippines (FAMPh) developed bag linings, laptop and tablet sleeves, jewelry, and hair accessories, while Base Bahay Foundation Inc. is exploring nonwoven materials for innovative construction systems.
According to DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., nonwoven textiles present a significant opportunity for the country to participate in rapidly expanding textile markets.
“The global nonwoven market is now valued at around US$58 billion and is projected to reach US$75 billion, with the Asia-Pacific region accounting for nearly half of global demand. This presents a tremendous opportunity for Filipino innovation,” Secretary Solidum said in his recorded keynote message.
He added that the expanding market creates opportunities for Filipino manufacturers, designers, researchers, and entrepreneurs to develop high-value products, generate jobs, and strengthen the country’s manufacturing competitiveness.
For DOST-PTRI Director IV Dr. Julius L. Leaño Jr., ONWARD, the Institute’s name for nonwoven textiles, represents more than a technological milestone, as it signals a shift in how Philippine natural fibers can create greater value beyond conventional woven textiles.
“Through ONWARD, our nonwoven textiles, we push Telang Pinoy forward. ONWARD is about the choices that we make—choosing a cleaner, safer, friendlier, and kinder Earth. It is about making better choices for our future. Let ONWARD become part of those meaningful choices we make today,” Leaño said.
Further strengthening the country’s nonwoven ecosystem, DOST-PTRI also announced that its Nonwovens Center will open in January 2027. The facility will house specialized processing equipment and serve as a research laboratory, innovation hub, product showroom, and collaborative space where government, industry, startups, and researchers can co-develop next-generation nonwoven products for Philippine industries.
With ONWARD, DOST-PTRI and its industry collaborators are laying the foundation for a more diversified Philippine textile industry, where locally developed nonwoven technologies can unlock new markets, strengthen manufacturing, and create sustainable opportunities for Filipino enterprises.
For more information on ONWARD, visit ptri.dost.gov.ph/ or facebook.com/ptri.dost.
