Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Students from the Department of Home Economics Education and Family Life, College of Human Ecology (CHE), Central Mindanao University (CMU), secured a spot among the Top 15 Finalists in the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Textile Research Institute’s (DOST-PTRI) 3rd Stitch-Off: Filipiniana-Coded Contest.
The competition is part of DOST-PTRI’s Textile Academy program and highlights how artistry and technology can champion sustainability, innovation, and Filipino identity through the use of Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) and handwoven textiles.
The team’s collection, “Hulagway sa Tribu” (Image of the Tribe), achieved the distinct honor of representing the entire island of Mindanao as the region’s sole finalist in the competition. The national showdown, which saw 15 teams advance from an initial pool of 50 institutions, including state universities, private colleges, and fashion institutes, was held at Foro de Intramuros, Manila, on October 22, 2025.
The team from CMU, composed of Ms. Daisy Marie S. Barrientos (4th Year), Ms. Ricalyn F. Presbitero (4th Year), and Mr. Lean Art B. Madjos (2nd Year), was ably guided by their dedicated faculty coaches, Mr. Redgie M. Castro and Ms. Marilou P. Butanas.
The collection served as a visual narrative of Bukidnon’s rich cultural heritage. Each piece seamlessly blended modern design with symbolic elements deeply rooted in the Bukidnon people’s core values. The collection prominently featured the tribal tapestry colors of red, white, yellow, and black, which embody bravery, purity, prosperity, and resilience. Meanwhile, Geometric patterns and lines depicted the majestic mountain ranges and verdant landscapes of the province. At the same time, the amakan weave motifs symbolized unity and interconnectedness among the seven tribes of Bukidnon.
The team highlighted their commitment to sustainability and ethical craftsmanship by incorporating fabrics developed and woven through collaboration with the DOST-PTRI. The core material was a blend of abaca and cotton in shades of brown, beige, and black. The design team was also assigned a partner community, the Miag-ao Weavers Association, whose artistry and heritage were showcased through the handwoven hablon-simray fabric integrated into the collection.
The CMU’s success against students from the country’s most renowned fashion design institutions is a powerful testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing culturally grounded, innovative individuals in its Home Economics program. [Iyren D. Neri/Chantal Montero with reports from Mr. Redgie M. Castro, faculty, CHE]
