Innovating combat wear
Soldiers in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) know the challenges of wearing battle dress uniforms (BDUs) all too well.
After long hours of use, especially during grueling treks up the mountains, the rough fabric can become uncomfortable and even cause skin irritation. Over time, exposure to the elements—also thorns and branches—can lead to wear and tear.
Recognizing these issues, the AFP compiled feedback from soldiers into a research paper titled, “Combatext: The development of our battle dress uniform,” and shared it with the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST–PTRI). The two agencies are working together to develop improved BDUs.
“We are refining and enhancing the technical specifications of our uniforms,” said Col. Isaclolo Diroy Jr., AFP’s deputy quartermaster general, during a recent media gathering. “Our goal is to improve durability and ease of use while addressing the feedback from our soldiers.”
Standard features
This initiative aligns with Republic Act No. 9242, which mandates the use of local tropical fabrics in uniforms for government employees. The memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the AFP and DOST-PTRI specifies that BDUs should include at least 5 percent local tropical fibers, such as abaca, banana, and pineapple, and 15 percent local silk by weight.
Diroy emphasized that continuous improvement drives the partnership. “Technology evolves, and so should our products. We don’t just rely on local research; we also study global best practices, particularly from European armies. Our uniforms need to be water-repellent, fire-retardant, and resistant to dirt. These are standard features elsewhere, and we want to integrate them,” he said.
Currently, the project is in the prototype phase, and field testing has not yet begun.
The media gathering was part of the 2025 National Textile Convention (TELACon), held last month at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
DOST-PTRI director Julius Leano Jr. echoed this commitment. “Textiles impact so many aspects of daily life. Right now, we’re focusing on specialized uniforms for our soldiers and firefighters,” he explained.
A session called “Philippine Textiles in Our Self-Reliance Defense Posture,” held on the second day of the convention, focused on how science, engineering, and innovation enhance military textile capabilities to support defense initiatives.
Leano mentioned plans to develop a local camouflage design. “Our terrain is unique. Why use a gray-brown pattern when we’re surrounded by green? Also part of the collaboration is to get as many photos as possible of what’s out there on the field,” he said, adding that the project utilizes AI to determine optimal color and pixel size for better concealment.
“This isn’t just for aesthetics,” Leano added. “Functionality and form go hand in hand. Soldiers are physically fit, and we want their uniforms to complement that. Maybe at TELACon 2026, we can ask them to participate in our fashion show.”
At a press conference, Diroy was asked about AFP’s body armor procurement, and whether the agency had explored the DOST’s bamboo-stainless steel bullet-resistant vest innovation.
“Currently, all our armor vests are procured abroad,” Diroy explained. “It’s not that we lack local manufacturers, but procurement policies require public bidding. We need bulletproof vests and ballistic helmets, and right now, our issued gear is the same as what the US Armed Forces use. In the future, if we develop local research capabilities, we can explore using bamboo materials.”
Bamboo-based textile
DOST-PTRI is also strengthening the Bamboo Textile Fiber Innovation Hub, in partnership with Timpuyog Dagiti Mannalon Ti Casilagan and the Health, Education, Environment, and Discipleship Foundation.
Lope Bautista, president of the Philippines’ first bamboo textile innovation hub, said there is ample supply of bamboo fiber. “We’re just waiting for PTRI to help execute their plans. This partnership is a big help to small farmers like us,” he said.
Additionally, DOST-PTRI will collaborate with UP Diliman to advance bamboo textile research.
Beyond uniforms, DOST-PTRI is also developing locally made textiles for accessories such as footwear, bags, and caps. “We’re addressing existing needs rather than creating new ones,” Leano explained. “There’s significant demand for locally sourced materials, and we’re working to fill that gap. Our non-woven innovation program is also set to launch later this year.”
Leano further discussed the potential of non-woven textiles. “Think acoustic backings, soundproofing, and filters—all textile applications. Even if you combine knitted and woven fabrics, the non-woven market is even larger. We’re just beginning to tap into its potential. Over the next few years, textiles will be recognized across industries.”
Carrying the theme “Weaving Circularity,” TELACon 2025 featured discussions on governance, national policy frameworks, and circular business models in the textile industry. Representatives from the United Nations Development Program, National Economic and Development Authority, and the Department of Finance shared insights, while brands like Bayo and Basically Borrowed discussed sustainable business practices.
The event culminated with the KatHABI fashion innovation show, featuring government-appropriate uniforms made from local fabrics.
