The Province of Tarlac took center stage at the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) as it unveiled the province’s official “Tarlac KanLahi” weave during a ceremonial “Map Dressing” held at the TELA Gallery in Bicutan, Taguig City on July 20, 2026.
Led by Governor Christian Tell Yap and DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., the event marked a milestone for Tarlac’s local textile industry and the formal deployment of DOST-PTRI Crochet Yarns to support weavers and crocheters in the province.
The Map Dressing project is a joint initiative of the Provincial Government of Tarlac, DOST-PTRI, and the MaYap Weavers and Crocheters Livelihood Association.
Investing in Tarlaqueño Talent
In his message, Gov. Yap highlighted the world-class potential of Tarlaqueños in weaving and crocheting.
“We engaged one of our talents who manufactures bags for the longest time. They said they cannot leave our province even if they can go to a better site in Manila, dahil mataas talaga ang potential ng aming mga ka-probinsya sa Tarlac. Nakakaproud na ang MaYap Weavers and Crocheters Livelihood. Maraming salamat kay Sec. Solidum at sa buong DOST-PTRI sa mainit na pagtanggap at sa de-kalidad na yarns para sa ating komunidad,” the Governor said.
Creating History with Tarlac KanLahi
Meanwhile, the Governor’s wife Melissa Yeung-Yap said the province is now making history with its own distinct weave.
“We are creating history and enhancing our culture and creating livelihood opportunities with these weaving trainings and weaving projects. May own design na po tayo, Tarlac lang mayroon,” she said in an interview.
900+ Artisans Empowered
The event also benefited nearly 900 members of the MaYap Tarlac Crochetings Livelihood Association — composed of 80 weavers and 780 crocheters — who are currently being trained by the provincial government. The group is known for its traditional hand-loomed and crocheted creations that blend culture with livelihood.
Also present were DOST Director Julius Leaño Jr., MaYap leader Marie Claire Banda, and the entire DOST-PTRI staff.
With this partnership, the Provincial Government of Tarlac aims to strengthen local industries, preserve cultural heritage, and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for Tarlaqueños.
The post Tarlac, DOST partner to boost local weaving, crocheting livelihood first appeared on Pampanga News Now.