We Are Calling on the Fashion Industry to Help Make PPE Suits

UPDATE: Apart from non-woven material (e.g. those used to create disposable surgical masks), water repellent fabrics like poly microfiber, taffeta, and umbrella nylon are also needed in order to make the suits washable and reusable.

ORIGINAL STORY: The Filipino frontliners working against the COVID-19 pandemic's further spread have previously reported a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) in hospitals and other working areas, and the local fashion scene is heeding the frantic cry for more supplies.

On Facebook, designer Mich Dulce sent out a plea for industry friends to help produce the much-needed PPEs in their studios, factories, and ateliers.

Using patterns from samples of PPE gear lent by Vice President Leni Robredo, Mich has asked fellow designers to participate in the noble endeavor. "To friends in the fashion industry who have studios or factories still in operation or with capacity to work from home and want to help, please [message me directly] and let's try get this material to become something our health workers can use. If you have a sewing machine you can help," she wrote. "Once we make the suit patterns, we will make copies of it and distribute alongside the fabric."

Owners of fabric supply shops are urged to join in, too. "If you are a fabric shop owner, please check your stock if you have at least 50gsm [of] non-woven fabric. Perhaps you can consider donating some of that fabric for us to make gear. Please get in touch if so."

So far, Mich's call has resulted in assembling a volunteer sewing team comprised of business owners and seamstresses. Should you wish to contribute (zippers and Velcro closures are needed, too), feel free to contact her here.

This is a developing story.

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