With the theme “Silken Horizons: Championing the Sericulture Industry, Escalating the Economy,” Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – Sericulture Research and Development Institute (DMMMSU-SRDI) celebrated its 32nd Foundation Anniversary at the International Convention Center (ICC), Bacnotan, La Union on April 25, 2024.

Dr. Gerardo P. Dacayanan, SRDI Training & Technical Services Division Chief, opened the program with welcome remarks and acknowledgment of attendees. “Let us celebrate our significant achievements and the institute’s, and we hope to be achieving more historic milestones and breakthroughs in the years to come,” Dacayanan said.

La Union’s First District Representative, Hon. Francisco Paolo P. Ortega V, graced the occasion as the esteemed guest of honor and speaker during the commemoration. In his address, Representative Ortega enthusiastically advocated for the growing success of the La Union Silk Industry, emphasizing the significance of incorporating silk fabric, particularly the iconic silk barong, into important events and government sessions, local and national, recognizing the pivotal role of such initiatives, in promoting La Union silk products. Also, he underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts with allied industries like cotton and abaca, as well as the strengthening of local and international linkages to elevate silk products to the next level.

Dr. Cristeta F. Gapuz, the Executive Director of SRDI, presented the institute’s accomplishment report and highlighted the research and extension involvement in scientific conferences and research fora, sustained linkages and collaborations locally with Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Textile Research Institute, State Universities, LGUs and Sericulture Associations, as well as internationally with Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme in Bangalore and Mysore India and Catalyste+ (Formerly the Canadian Executive Service Overseas). She also emphasized that all the activities and services in sericulture are gender sensitive in support of the sustainable development goals. “As we go on with our journey, we are committed to strive to gain miles, radiate to empower others, define strategies and touch more lives, and intensify efforts to make a bigger difference,” Gapuz added.

SRDI Pioneering Director Dr. Virgilio M. Libunao delighted the participants with the tale of how cocoon silk was discovered. He explained that China initially monopolized the silk industry because it was first discovered there. The discovery was made when a cocoon fell into a cup of tea, and upon retrieval, it unraveled into an apparently endless thread. That’s where the idea of reeling started. Reflecting on the journey from silk discovery to technological advancements in cocoon processing, Libunao remarked, “This story reminds us of the virtue of patience.”

Following was the presentation of recognition plaques to employees, clients, and benefactors. Mr. Calixto R. Galano, the Top 2 Cocoon producer for 2023-2024, and Ms. Verlyn Casilang, a weaver at the Sapilang Silk Weaving Association, shared their experiences and testimonies regarding their sericulture endeavor.

“Nu pakanem ti silkworm, sigurado pakanen na ka met (When you feed a silkworm, it will surely feed you back),” Galano said during his testimony.

As one of the top income earners, Casilang, due to her weaving skills, which enabled her to acquire household items, also encouraged fellow mothers to engage in weaving. 

During the closing remarks, Research and Development Division Chief Ms. Evangel M. Barrameda extended congratulations to everyone and emphasized that the awards given should inspire ongoing efforts toward achieving the goals of the institute. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the stakeholders, emphasizing that their support is integral, stating, “Without you, awan serbi ti efforts mi agre-research (without you, our efforts for research hold little significance)”.  “Let us exert extra efforts to make a bigger difference and to take SRDI to greater heights,” she added.

Present during the event were representatives from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the National Apiculture Research and Training Institute (NARTDI). Also in attendance were stakeholders from the Sericulture Entrepreneurs Association, Silk Weavers Association, Sericulture Handicraft Producers Association, and several university officials.

With insightful addresses, inspiring tales, and heartfelt acknowledgments, the event served as a beacon to guide the institute toward greater heights. With all the accomplishments, DMMMSU SRDI sets its sights on the silken horizon, embracing the challenges and opportunities, ready to continue its legacy of excellence for years to come. (By AGCarriedo, JCDasugo, JPAngayen)