Mamanwa weavers in Tagana-an, Surigao Norte revive ‘baliw’ handicraft
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The artistry of weaving using the local fiber ‘baliw’ has been given new life through a recent skills training in Tagana-an, Surigao del Norte.
Participants from Binayloay Mamanwa Weavers Association learned the refined techniques in crafting various items from baliw fiber, a local plant material which is abundant in the town and is used as primary material for traditional weaving to create bags, baskets, and other handicrafts.
Conducted from Sept. 18 to 19, the training was spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Surigao del Norte through the Negosyo Center.
According to Meralyn D. Supera, head of the Tagana-an Municipal Economic Enterprise Development and Management Office (MEEDMO), the event marked a significant moment for the community, as it was the first time in ten years that the traditional craft has been formally revived.
“With the support from the local government of Tagana-an and the Taganito HPAL Nickel Corporation, the skills training was designed to revive and enhance the weaving talents of Taganaon locals, while fostering opportunities for sustainable livelihood, especially to the Mamanwa weavers,” she said.
To ensure the long-term success of the project, the weavers, with the guidance of the Municipal Agriculture Office of Tagana-an, organized themselves into an association. An election was conducted to establish a formal group that will help manage future projects, secure resources, and collectively market their products.
Datu Bahandi of Binayloay Mamanwa Weavers Association said, “This initiative has been a light of hope to the Mamanwa community, bringing not only new skills but also renewed purpose and a path toward a more sustainable future for our community.”
“Our weaving tradition is a vital part of our cultural heritage. The DTI’s training has empowered us to build upon this legacy, transforming it from a traditional practice into a viable source of livelihood,” Datu Bahandi added. “This program has provided us with a chance to become self-reliant and productive citizens. The tools, knowledge, and market access provided by the DTI have given us the confidence to turn our passion and hard work into a sustainable business. We are now able to contribute to our families’ income, which is a great blessing.”
The Mamanwa are an indigenous people (IP) in the Philippines known for their distinct physical characteristics—dark skin and curly hair.
Also, considered as one of the first settlers in Caraga region, this IP group has rooted their culture through skilled crafts such as weaving. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DTI-SDN)
