MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--Some 25 registered cooperatives of local artisans in the province of Lanao del Sur received financial support from the provincial government to boost their social enterprise.

The P20,000 cash assistance to each cooperative was handed over by Provincial Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid “Mujam” Raki-in Adiong during the 1st Meranaw Artisans Summit held here Tuesday, Sept. 27.

In his message, Adiong encouraged the local artisans to continue what they have started and assured them that the provincial government is there to support them.

Provincial Tourism Officer Ahmad Nouraldinn Tamano Jr. said the summit and provision of financial assistance are just the beginning of their interventions to support local artisans and their crafts and products.

He said the provincial government is also planning to provide capacity-building assistance, especially on financial literacy and enterprise management.

The tourism officer further disclosed that they are eyeing to create a Meranaw Artisan Village in Tugaya where all the crafts and works of local artisans can be showcased. This, he said, will not only preserve the rich culture and heritage of Meranaws but will also boost cultural tourism development in the province.

"Sa lahat ng mga artisan ng Lanao del Sur, nandidito ang provincial government para kaagapay ninyo at tutulong sa kahit ano mang tulong na kakayanin namin [to all the artisans of Lanao del Sur, the provincial government is here to support you and will help you in whatever wat we can]," he further said. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)