HiblaTek app brings Aklan piña weaving to digital age

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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI, in partnership with Aklan State University (ASU), is introducing HiblaTek, the first mobile application designed to analyze natural fibers in piña fabrics, marking a major step toward modernizing one of the country’s most celebrated weaving traditions.

Launched on March 17, 2025, at ASU’s cafeteria in Banga, Aklan, HiblaTek was developed by the ASU Research and Development Services team led by Prof. Julie Ann A. Salido, with Kirk M. Hilario, Dr. Melba L. Raga-as, and Jioelle B. Laurente.

The app uses image recognition technology to calculate warp and weft thread density per square inch from a simple photo of piña fabric. It then classifies the textile and determines whether it meets the official Aklan piña fabric standard, streamlining what was once a tedious manual process.

“This is our innovation initiative to support the weaving industry through technology,” said DTI VI OIC-Regional Director Ma. Dinda Tamayo. “We want to help local MSMEs embrace digital solutions, preserve our weaving heritage, and strengthen their market competitiveness.”

The app’s usefulness extends beyond production. Consumers will be able to scan fabrics before purchase to verify classification, helping ensure authenticity and preventing overpricing.

“HiblaTek will save time, improve accuracy, and protect both our weavers and our buyers,” said DTI Aklan Provincial Director Romel L. Amihan. “HiblaTek bridges tradition and technology, ensuring our weaving heritage thrives in a modern economy,” added ASU President Jeffrey A. Clarin.

The idea for HiblaTek originated from the Regional Inclusive Innovation Center (RIIC) meetings in 2023, where it was identified as a priority project under the Natural Fibers Technology Resource Center.

Since then, DTI Aklan and ASU have worked closely with local producers by gathering samples, conducting alpha tests, and refining the technology based on feedback from weaving enterprises.

While the release date on Google Play Store has yet to be confirmed, the app is in its final development stages and is expected to be available soon to weavers, producers, students, and consumers.

Once launched, it will serve as a free, easy-to-use tool for quality assurance, heritage preservation, and the sustainable growth of Aklan’s piña weaving industry.