The Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera and its partner agencies has launched the Cordillera Weaving Industry Development Plan (CWIDP) on July 26 to harmonize and strengthen the weaving industry in the region and highlight the role of weavers in the community.
DOST-Cordillera Director Nancy Bantog said the CWIDP is a blueprint for stakeholders in the weaving industry to capitalize on the strengths and opportunities within and outside the region while proactively dealing on the internal and external challenges to expand the industry’s share to the socio-economic development for the region.
“The CWIDP converges the governments and private sector’s initiatives towards a competitive and sustainable weaving industry,” Bantog said.
The CWIDP 2020-2028 envisions a Cordillera-inspired, creative, and vibrant weaving industry that is sustainable, resilient, and globally competitive, advanced by a community of artisans and entrepreneurs for the benefit of the Cordillerans.
DOST Sec. Fortunato de la Peña congratulated and assured support to the stakeholders in the weaving sector.
“May our partnership with key agencies and lead institutions guide the region towards a competitive and sustainable weaving industry for the benefit of the community. This is a testament that through science, technology, and innovation, we can improve the lives of our people,” de la Peña said.
The Cordillera Weaving Industry Council is the recognized body to implement CWIDP.
As chair of the council, DOST-Cordillera organized the Cordillera Weaving Industry Summit from July 26 to 30 in time with the 34th Cordillera Month celebrations.
Activities included face-to-face and virtual webinars, training, and workshops for local weavers on topics such as contemporary fashion trends and basic handloom and marketing trends and opportunities in traditional and digital platforms.
Different weaver groups from Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga and Mountain Province joined via live webcast of the events. – Christian Robert M. Sandoval
April 30, 2024
