The challenges of poverty didn't hinder the residents in Sitio Silangan, Barangay Pato-o in, Odiongan, Romblon from striving for a better life and for establishing a new business venture.

The community of tiger grass farmers, known as luway, took root in 2023 at the said Sitio. Over the years, this endeavor grew, becoming a source of sustenance and pride for the locals.

However, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the community encountered unprecedented hurdles. Disruption in traditional markets made selling their tiger grass increasingly difficult. Yet, the resilient residents of Pato-o saw an opportunity amidst adversity.

Recognizing the potential for self-sufficiency, the community decided to repurpose their tiger grass into brooms. However, this shift required skills and support they lacked. They sought assistance from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI's) Negosyo Center Odiongan, local leaders, and town officials.

In response, a series of skills training sessions on broom-making were initiated in 2020. These sessions aimed to equip community members with the necessary expertise to craft high-quality brooms from tiger grass.

Further training was provided in 2021 to enhance their abilities. Yet, the journey didn't conclude with training alone. Understanding the significance of marketability, the DTI intervened, offering aid through broom handle plastic labeling. This not only enhanced the appeal of their product but also expanded its market reach.

To formalize their efforts and garner additional support, the community endeavored to establish an association. With guidance from the Negosyo Center and the Odiongan Community Organizing Office, the Layuning Umunlad na Walang Alinlangang Yumaman Association (Luway) was founded.

Since its inception, Luway has received support from the municipal government of Odiongan and the DTI Negosyo Center.

The LGU constructed a cluster house which serves as manufacturing and storage facility for the association, fostering production and collaboration among members.

The Negosyo Center played a pivotal role in Luway's success, not only offering training but also providing crucial marketing assistance. By connecting the association with potential customers, the Negosyo Center ensured the sustainability of the tiger grass industry in Pato-o. Today, the association is now exporting tiger grass brooms to other towns in Tablas Island, also in Romblon. (PJF/PIA Mimaropa - Romblon)