LEON, Iloilo – A weaving community here is poised to scale up its production and preserve its cultural heritage after receiving an upgraded facility from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
On June 30, the DTI Iloilo Provincial Office turned over a Shared Service Facility (SSF) for pandan weaving to the Baje Weavers Association (BWA) in Barangay Baje, Leon, in a move seen to boost the quality and quantity of locally woven products while empowering grassroots artisans.
DTI Iloilo provincial director Ma. Dinda Tamayo led the turnover ceremony held at the Baje Livelihood Center. In her speech, she underscored the significance of the SSF in strengthening the capabilities of micro-enterprises and ensuring the sustainability of community-based industries.
“This initiative is about more than just equipment—it’s about strengthening communities, supporting livelihoods, and keeping traditional crafts alive,” Tamayo said, lauding the resilience of the Baje Weavers in continuing their work despite limited transportation and poor road access.
BWA president Susan Gadian received the facility on behalf of the association and thanked the DTI for its continued support.
“This facility will be a great help to us in improving the quality and quantity of our woven products. We are truly grateful for this opportunity,” she said.
The upgraded SSF is expected to improve the weavers’ productivity, enhance product consistency, and open new market opportunities for their handcrafted goods, especially as demand for eco-friendly and indigenous materials continues to grow.
Joining Tamayo during the ceremony were DTI personnel: Supervising Trade-Industry Development Specialist Engr. Jonathan T. Tejida, Trade-Industry Development Specialist Shayne G. Jornadal, Trade-Industry Development Analyst Anelyn L. Apiag, and Charie Joy T. Taganos, Business Counsellor of Negosyo Center Leon./PN
