TUGAYA, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--Artisans here conveyed their gratitude to the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH) - Lanao del Sur and the local government of Tugaya for their continuous support of their crafts. 

The artisans shared how glad they were during the opening ceremony of the School of Living Traditions: Skills Training for Baor making, saying that finally, their crafts are now being recognized in society.

"Malaking pasasalamat namin kasi nabigyan kami ng pansin ngayon [ng gobyerno]," said Master artisan Azis.

(We are very thankful because we were given attention now by the government.) 

Although master artisan Azis has a main job now, he continues to make cultural products such as Baor as he wants to not only contribute to the preservation of the culture but also give back to those who appreciate his work.

"Pag nakita mong naa-appreciate yung gawa mo, nae-engganyo ka talaga. Yun yong nagpupush sa akin na ipagpatuloy ko ang paggawa ng mga ganitong produkto," he said.

(When you see that your work is appreciated, you are really encouraged. That's what pushes me to continue making these products.) 

He also extended his unceasing gratitude to organizations and other agencies for their continuous initiatives in providing programs to master artisans like them. 

Meanwhile, Councilor Omair Balindong shared that the local government has many programs for the artisans of their town. 

"Itong mga ganitong training ay napapa-expand niya ang ating livelihood at malaki ang naitutulong niya sa mga mamamayan ng Tugaya. May [nakalaan] mga plans na rin si Mayor para sa mga workers ng Tugaya lalo na sa ating mga artisans," said Councilor Balindong. 

(With these trainings, it expands our livelihood and helps a lot the people of Tugaya. The Mayor also has plans for the workers of Tugaya, especially our artisans.) (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)