DOST revives traditional IP weaving in Bukidnon

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Region 10 has partnered with the local government of Talakag, Bukidnon province, to revive the traditional weaving practices of indigenous peoples (IPs).

In a statement Wednesday, DOST-10 Chief Science Research Specialist Virgilio Fuertes said the initiative is part of the program ‘Uplifting Grassroots Livelihood Opportunities through Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI).’

“We in the government share a vision of a future where their craft thrives, their community prospers, and their heritage continues to inspire generations to come,” Fuertes said.

The STI program builds on the 2024 “Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development” initiative, which supports unconventional innovations used by unprivileged communities.

The Damugu Weavers Association (DWA), a group of Higaonon IP weavers in Talakag town, is one of the program’s key partners.

Led by Bae Cornita Sagayan and Bae Nenita Hugnaan, the association has conducted hands-on training to reinforce traditional patterns and methods while introducing new techniques.

DWA president Irene Mae Sinhayan expressed optimism about reviving the craft for future generations.

“I prefer calling it a ‘sleeping culture,’ and my goal, along with this group, is to wake it up and make it vibrant again,” she said in the vernacular.