MANILA, Philippines ? Water hyacinths clogging tributaries of Laguna de Bay are providing a promising livelihood venture for Taguig City residents.

The plants are now processed and turned into decor and other items that have the potential to make it in the international market.

Water hyacinth bags, place mats, wreaths and even parol (Christmas lantern) made by Taguig residents debuted Friday at the Department of Trade and Industry?s One Town, One Product fair at Market! Market in Bonifacio Global City.

Launched in August, the Water Lily Livelihood Project has been implemented in six of Taguig?s 18 barangay by Soroptimist International headed by Kaye Tiñga, wife of Mayor Sigfrido ?Freddie? Tiñga.

Councilor Gigi de Mesa, one of the project?s point persons, said the project could also solve the problem of water lilies clogging Taguig River.

Water hyacinths, also called water lilies, thrive in parts of Laguna de Bay, the third largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and its tributaries, including the rivers of Pasig, Pateros and Taguig.

Over 200 persons were trained under the project in the villages of Napindan, Signal Village, Lower Bicutan, Wawa, Bambang and Tuktukan.

Each barangay processes water lilies into a different product. For example, Napindan residents make slippers and place mats, while Signal Village and Lower Bicutan make bags and house decors, respectively.

Wawa and Bambang residents produce Christmas decorations, and Tuktukan does novelty items.

De Mesa said no chemicals were used to make the products.