The rainy season no longer signals a halt in income for around 100 Muntinlupa weavers as they look forward to a more stable, year-round production— all thanks to the Eco-Dryer developed by the Department of Science and Technology - Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST - FPRDI). The Eco-Dryer is an innovation that delivers reliable drying and ensures harvested water hyacinths are ready for weaving into high-end handcrafted goods, regardless of weather. Last February 4, 2026, Maynilad Water Services Inc. in partnership with DOST-NCR, formally turned over the water hyacinth drying facility to the City Government of Muntinlupa.
For years, the talented weavers under the Gender and Development (GAD) Office of the Muntinlupa City LGU endured unpredictable weather, leaving their raw materials vulnerable to mold and rot. This led to wasted harvests and stalled production during the rainy season, causing a significant gap in their income. While the water hyacinth is one of the world’s fastest-growing freshwater plants, its potential as a sustainable material has long been hampered by these drying challenges.
With the new facility, the community can now consistently produce a wide array of sustainable products, including assorted bags, bayongs, trays, placemats, slippers, and coasters.
"Our mission is to ensure that science serves as a bridge to prosperity, making the concept of Agham na Ramdam a daily reality for Filipino families," stated DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. "By using this drying system, Muntinlupa weavers can overcome the barriers of nature so they can focus on their craft and compete in the global market with confidence and pride."
Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon expressed his gratitude for the collaboration, noting how it transforms an environmental challenge into an asset. "This project proves that when science, environmental responsibility, and innovation come together, we create real and lasting impact. What was once seen as a problem is now an opportunity," Mayor Biazon said. "Through this partnership, we are not only addressing an environmental challenge, we are strengthening livelihoods and giving our weavers the stability they deserve. This is the kind of convergence we want to continue: solutions that are practical, sustainable, and centered on uplifting every Muntinlupeño."
For Maynilad, the project is an extension of their environmental and social commitment to the communities surrounding Laguna Lake.
“Maynilad supports this initiative in partnership with DOST-FPRDI and the City Government of Muntinlupa to help promote sustainable livelihood opportunities linked to water and the environment,” said Marie Antonette H. De Ocampo, Head of Corporate Affairs and Communication of Maynilad Water Services Inc. “With Laguna Lake as one of our water sources, efforts like this highlight the value of environmental stewardship while helping local communities sustain their income.”
The DOST-FPRDI Eco-Dryer addresses production hurdles through efficient engineering. The facility features a simplified heating system that reduces fabrication costs by 60% and biomass consumption by 35% compared to conventional models.
“By maximizing heat distribution and retention, the system allows weavers to achieve consistent drying temperatures without the need for high volumes of firewood,” explained Engr. Wency H. Carmelo, Supervising Science Research Specialist of DOST-FPRDI.
To ensure the long-term success of this initiative, DOST-FPRDI experts are scheduled to provide comprehensive technology demonstrations and training for the local staff on the proper operation and maintenance of the facility in the coming weeks.
“At DOST-FPRDI, we see our role as supporting the real champions of this effort—the community weavers who are reshaping their environment through their craft," said DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon. "We hope to help our partners in Muntinlupa achieve levels of productivity that were once out of reach during the rainy season."
As DOST’s research and development arm on forest products utilization, the Institute continues to provide technical assistance and innovative technologies that empower local industries and marginalized communities across the Philippines.
For more information, please visit https://fprdi.dost.gov.ph/ or collaborate with DOST-FPRDI thru This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. ### (Maria Greatchin S. Brucal, February , 2026)
Handcrafted bags made by the water hyacinth weavers of Muntinlupa City.
(Photos from Analie Atnasul)
The newly inaugurated DOST-FPRDI Eco-Dryer (Water Hyacinth Dryer Facility) which features a biomass-fed heating system designed to provide year-round, climate-resilient drying for local artisans
Representatives from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) - National Capital Region, DOST-FPRDI, Maynilad Water Services, Inc., and the City Government of Muntinlupa hold a symbolic key during the ceremonial turnover of the Water Hyacinth Dryer Facility on February 4, 2026.
