IPB, DOST-PTRI and partners to bring occasion - a fusion of fashion and agricultural innovation

The University of the Philippines Los Baños - Institute of Plant Breeding (UPLB-IPB) is celebrating its 50th founding anniversary with the theme “IPB Golden Jubilee: Celebrating Milestones, Innovating Pathways in Plant Breeding.” As a highlight of this golden milestone, IPB, together with its partners, is set to host the first-ever International Plant Breeding Conference (IPBC) on June 26-27, 2025, at The Manila Hotel.

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Adding a distinct flair to the scientific gathering, IPB, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology — Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) and the Department of Science and Technology — Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), will present KatHABI: Textile Innovation Fashion Show x IPB Abaca Hybrid. This innovation showcase will feature garments made from the IPB-developed abaca hybrid, a plant-based fiber that forms part of the Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF), blended with other locally sourced natural fibers.

The runway will spotlight creations from renowned Filipino designers including Avel Bacudio, JC Buendia, Jor-el Espina, Jun Escario, Benjie Panizales and Egay Ayag of the Davao Fashion and Design Council, as well as DOST-PTRI’s in-house design team. This fusion of fashion and agricultural innovation aims to demonstrate the commercial viability and global competitiveness of Philippine fibers in the textile and fashion industries.

Dignitaries, national scientists, government officials, and industry stakeholders are expected to attend the celebration. Their participation highlights the increasing collaboration between the scientific community and the creative sector, advancing innovative and sustainable fiber development and encouraging greater support for indigenous materials.