On January 14, 2025, the Research and Development and Entrepreneurship (RDE) team embarked on a benchmarking visit to the Cotton Processing Center in Labnig, San Juan, Ilocos Sur. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PHILFIDA) Region 1, aimed to deepen the team’s understanding of cotton fiber production processes and explore technologies and equipment used in the industry.
The Cotton Processing Center showcased the various technologies and equipment used in cotton fiber production. The team was introduced to:
- Degumming Machines: Used to remove impurities and prepare raw cotton for processing.
- Fiber Openers: Designed to loosen and separate raw fibers for further refinement.
- Fiber Softeners: Employed to enhance the texture and flexibility of processed cotton.
The PHILFIDA representative Mr. Mel Binwick walked the RDE team through the step-by-step procedures in cotton fiber processing, highlighting how these machines contribute to producing high-quality cotton products efficiently and sustainably.
The team also visited the nearby cotton farm, where they gained firsthand insights into the cultivation practices and conditions vital for producing premium-quality cotton. Immersed in the farming environment, the team had the opportunity to experience cotton harvesting, deepening their appreciation for the meticulous efforts involved in the process. This farm visit offered a holistic understanding of the upstream activities in the cotton value chain, encompassing essential stages from planting and nurturing crops to the careful harvesting of cotton bolls at their peak.
PHILFIDA experts shared insights on the challenges and opportunities in cotton farming, emphasizing sustainable practices to optimize yield and maintain soil health.
This visit not only deepened the RDE team’s knowledge of cotton processing but also opened doors for future collaborations with PHILFIDA Region 1. The shared expertise and experiences are expected to inform future RDE projects, including the potential establishment of small-scale fiber production facilities.
The benchmarking visit was a resounding success, equipping the RDE team with valuable insights into cotton fiber production and farming. By understanding the processes and technologies involved, Aldersgate College continues to take strides toward fostering innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship in the fiber industry.
By: OIC for RDEC

Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority’s (PhilFIDA) Region 1 Visitation for Collaboration
January 13, 2024
Left Picture ( left to right): Jovelyn Detablan, Director, Center for Abaca and Natural Fiber, Mushroom and Medicinal Plant, and Natural Products Research; Tatchin B. Calasiao, Science Research Specialist I; Gloria A. Rosario, Engineer II and Deputy Project Manager, Cotton Project Management Committee; Lhyca Ann Sibal, RDE Specialist; Dr. Cesar Medulla, Vice President for RDE; Chelsey Joy Dacumos, RDE Specialist; Rubilyn L. Attam, OIC for RDEC; and Nenita D. Cacayorin, Science Research Specialist II.

Exploring Cotton Processing with PhilFIDA
PhilFIDA’s Personnel Mr. Mel Binwick guides the RDE team through an in-depth tour of the Cotton Processing Center. Left Picture (Ginning Machine); Right Picture (Blow Card Machine)

PhilFIDA’s Mr. Mel Binwick explains the function of the Flyer Frame to the RDE team, detailing how it attenuates drawn slivers onto bobbins, refining and adjusting the slivers’ hanks.

PhilFIDA’s Mr. Mel Binwick explains the function of the Ring Frame to the RDE team, highlighting how it further refines the slivers into yarn, preparing them for the next stages of production.

Charkha Machine Explained
PhilFIDA’s Mr. Mel Binwick introduces the Charkha Machine to the RDE team, explaining its role in manually spinning cotton fibers into yarn, demonstrating traditional techniques still relevant in modern processing.

Ring Doubler and Cone Winder
In the left image, PhilFIDA’s Mr. Mel Binwick explains the Ring Doubler, which combines single-ply yarn into double-ply for added strength. In the right image, the Cone Winder is highlighted, preparing the yarn for efficient storage and further processing.

Exploring Cotton Processing with PhilFIDA
PhilFIDA’s Personnel Mr. Mel Binwick guides the RDE team through an in-depth tour of the Cotton Processing Center

Visiting the Cotton Farm
The RDE team visits the cotton farm, gaining firsthand insights into cultivation practices and experiencing the harvesting process, essential steps in producing premium-quality cotton.

Cotton Farm: Exploring Cotton Harvest Storage
The RDE team examines the storage facility for harvested cotton, learning about proper handling and preservation techniques critical for maintaining fiber quality before processing

RDE Team: Pioneering Sustainable Practices in Cotton Harvesting for Innovation and Growth