The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority Regional Office VII (PhilFIDA RO VII), in collaboration with DSWD Region VII and LGU-Tuburan, conducted a five-day Basic Handloom Weaving Training for members of the Bangkito Weavers Association in Tuburan, Cebu. This association, a beneficiary of the DSWD-Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSWD-SLP), aims to capacitate members who lack proficiency in handloom weaving. Barangay Bangkito, known for producing sinamay, has seen its weaving industry decline due to a shortage of new weavers. The training aimed to enhance the skills of the current weavers and involve high school students during their summer break, ensuring the tradition’s continuity.

The training began with a welcoming address by Barangay Kagawad Raymond Castro, followed by an overview from DSWD-SLP representative, Ms. Alona A. Recta, and a discussion on the initiative’s rationale by PhilFIDA RO VII Technical Assistance Unit Head Jose Dary C. Locsin. Supervised by PhilFIDA VII Cebu Provincial Fiber Officer Lionel Abella and assisted by Engr. Lenard Maitem, the training provided hands-on experience and guidance in handloom weaving techniques. This initiative reflects PhilFIDA’s commitment to supporting the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program, as reaffirmed during the MOA signing on April 8, 2024.

This LGU-Led Basic Handloom Weaving Training not only equipped the Bangkito weavers with essential skills but also aimed to revive and sustain Tuburan’s rich weaving tradition. By empowering local weavers and involving the younger generation, the initiative seeks to preserve traditional crafts and foster sustainable livelihoods, contributing significantly to the local and regional economy.

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