Local weavers, artisans, and designers from the province gathered as product development beneficiaries for the first-ever Artisan Weaving and Festival of Creative Talents in Davao Oriental, held on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at the Provincial Capitol in the City of Mati.
With the theme “Gi-inang Sang Alima 2024” (roughly, “Nurtured by Skilled Hands”), which celebrates the province’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant craft industry, the event aimed to provide insights on how participants can further develop their existing skills and products to compete in both local and international markets.
Throughout the day-long event, organized by the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), participants gained valuable knowledge on the national textile roadmap, current trends in handicrafts, market opportunities, and the future direction of wearable and homestyle products.
One of the highlights of the event was the captivating recital performance by Hinimo Creative Talents and the Rondalla Ensemble, showcasing traditional and popular songs and dances with deep cultural meaning that thoroughly entertained the audience.
Despite a packed schedule, Governor Niño Uy was present and delivered a heartfelt message.
As a continuation of the Kabilin Festival, the Governor expressed his gratitude to all supporters of the event, acknowledging their partnership in helping uplift the quality of life for every Oriental Dabawenyo—enabling them to become self-reliant through practical initiatives while preserving the cultural identity of Davao Oriental.
“Rest assured, in the name of our Provincial Government, we commit ourselves to helping our people. Our goal is to uplift the quality of life to make our people self-reliant and able to stand on their own. I am deeply thankful to all stakeholders for continuing this program, especially for supporting the Kabilin Festival’s mission to preserve the richness of our culture,” said Gov. Niño Uy.
Governor Uy, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), aims to provide a strong platform for local artisans to showcase their talents, preserve and promote the rich tradition of artisan weaving in Davao Oriental through various workshops in arts, dance, painting, and other creative disciplines for Oriental Dabawenyos.
The event was attended by DTI-DOPO Provincial Director Ma. Joycelyn F. Bansalan, Davao Fashion and Design Council President Emi Alexander Englis, TADECO Marketing Manager Juvenal Fernandez, MTEFI Executive Director Marian Comilang, DTI-RO 11 BDTP Division Chief Arriel Nengasca, and PCCI President Engr. Rufo Trocio.
By Nelton Abing | Photos by Jerome Diosma, Redd Bayron
