A group of people, including representatives from DTI 7 and UP Cebu, participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the launch of MATIX, a materials innovation initiative under the Tatak Pinoy Program. The participants are smiling, holding a blue ribbon with decorative bows, and standing in front of a building with colorful floral arrangements. Logos of partner organizations, including DTI, Tatak Pinoy, Cebu, UNESCO, and UP Cebu, are displayed at the top of the image.

CEBU, 21 March 2025 – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 7, in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Cebu (UP Cebu), proudly launched the Tatak Pinoy UP Cebu Materials Innovation Center (TP-UPCMIC), also known as MATIX UP Cebu. This initiative is a significant step in advancing the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Program, strengthening local innovation, sustainability, and material research.

Located at the FabLab UP Cebu, a DTI project under the Shared Service Facilities (SSF) program, MATIX UP Cebu serves as a hub for sustainable material innovation, bridging industry, academia, and the community. The center focuses on research and development (R&D) of new, high-impact materials using locally sourced organic and synthetic materials with vast potential for applications in product design, packaging, textiles, and manufacturing.

The establishment of MATIX UP Cebu is backed by ₱1,775,000 in Tatak Pinoy funding, with an additional ₱1,175,000 counterpart funding from the proponent. This investment highlights a strong commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in Philippine industries, with strategic collaborations with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Cebu Furniture Industries Foundation (CFIF), Cebu Gifts, Toys, & Housewares (Cebu GTH), and the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI).

During the launch, DTI 7 Assistant Regional Director Esperanza L. Melgar emphasized the role of MATIX UP Cebu in the implementation of the Tatak Pinoy Act (RA 11981), which aims to boost the country’s economic complexity and diversify local industries. “This initiative aligns with the Tatak Pinoy Strategy, which prioritizes human resources, technology, and innovation. By fostering industry-academe collaboration, we can create cutting-edge, globally competitive materials that embody the proudly Filipino ethos,” she stated.

Three women standing inside an exhibit space, viewing large informational boards and displayed items related to materials innovation. They are examining artifacts on tables and reading text panels, which feature images and descriptions of various products and processes. The space is well-lit, with a white interior, and the women are seen from behind, carrying woven bags.

During the event, 10 student groups showcased their innovative products and outputs as beneficiaries of the program, demonstrating the impact of the center in fostering material innovation and sustainable product development using pomelo peels, tamarind shells, rambutan, lanzones, corn husks, banana pseudo-stems, local flower petals, cogon grass, and seaweed. Each group received ₱30,000 in funding for research and development, allowing them to develop innovative applications for various industries – such as decorative lamps, accessories, toys and wearables.

The center offers state-of-the-art research, training, and digital archiving services. It focuses on materials research and development, exploring biodegradable, recycled, and sustainable materials for industry applications. It also supports product development and business incubation, helping startups, designers, and industry players innovate with new materials. The materials library serves as a comprehensive repository of material swatches and technical resources, while the digital archiving and cataloging system provides online access to research data, case studies, and industry references. Additionally, the center conducts workshops and training, offering hands-on programs on upcycling, composite material innovation, and sustainable design.

A view of the MATIX UP CEBU space, with a wooden wall displaying the MATIX UP CEBU logo in bold letters. A white lattice structure is on the right, where a woman stands using her phone. Several people can be seen in the background, gathered inside a brightly lit exhibit area.

With MATIX UP Cebu, DTI 7 and UP Cebu reaffirm their commitment to strengthening Philippine industries through innovation and sustainability. This initiative ensures that Filipino talents and enterprises can create high-value, proudly Filipino products that compete globally. (DTI 7/PR) ♦

Date of Release: 28 March 2025

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