This will potentially open up a PHP17.8-billion industry for locally made uniforms.
The Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) is stepping up efforts to strengthen compliance with the Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) Law across government agencies.
The push is part of DOST-PTRI’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the implementation of Republic Act No. 9242, which mandates that government agencies use Philippine Tropical Fabrics—locally sourced and processed natural fiber textiles made from abaca, pineapple, banana, bamboo, cotton, and silk—in official uniforms and government-issued attire.
Despite the policy being in place, the institute noted that gaps in terms of awareness and procurement persist among some agencies and local government units.
Citing government data, the annual Uniform or Clothing Allowance (UCA) for public employees amounts to approximately PHP17.8 billion.
Around half of this is estimated to go directly to textile procurement, translating to a demand of roughly 30 million meters of fabric each year at an average cost of PHP300 per meter.
DOST-PTRI Director IV Dr. Julius Leaño Jr. said the scale of demand and full compliance with the law present a clear opportunity to activate the entire domestic textile supply chain.
“Government uniform requirements can drive production across the entire value chain—from fiber cultivation to yarn production, weaving, and garment manufacturing,” shared Leaño.
He noted that the full compliance with the PTF Law can help transform public procurement into a stable market for local producers.
The DOST-PTRI said local fiber supply is sufficient to support increased production when properly integrated into the value chain.
Cotton farms cover about 12,600 hectares and are able produce about 2,270 metric tons of cotton, while other natural fibers contribute around 1,000 metric tons.
Together, these form a domestic raw material base capable of meeting the estimated annual PTF demand.
The institute also underscored the sustainability benefits of shifting to locally produced natural fiber textiles, citing estimates that PTF-based fabrics can reduce carbon emissions compared with conventional polyester materials.
To support implementation, DOST-PTRI continues to provide technical standards, testing, and certification for compliant fabrics.
The agency is now working closely with partner agencies such as the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for compliance enforcement, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for expanding market opportunities for local manufacturers, and the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (DA-PhilFIDA) for support in fiber cultivation.
Through its Fostering the Revitalization of Nascent Textile Innovation Ecosystems in the Region (FRONTIER) program, DOST-PTRI is establishing textile innovation hubs nationwide.
These hubs are designed to connect fiber producers, weavers, designers, and manufacturers to expand and strengthen local textile production capacity within a coordinated ecosystem.
Furthermore, DOST-PTRI is calling on government agencies and industry partners to accelerate full compliance with the PTF Law, which it views both as a legal obligation and a concrete economic opportunity for Filipino farmers, weavers, and manufacturers.