BAGUIO CITY – In a bid to harmonize and strengthen the weaving industry in the region as well as highlight the vital role of weavers in the community, the Department of Science and Technology – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) together with partner agencies launched the Cordillera Weaving Industry Development Plan (CWIDP) on July 26.

“It is a blueprint to all stakeholders in the weaving industry to capitalize on the strengths and opportunities within and outside the region while proactively dealing on the internal and external challenges to expand the industry’s share for the socio-economic development for the region,” DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog said.

The CWIDP 2020-2028 envisions a Cordillera-inspired, creative, and vibrant weaving industry that is sustainable, resilient, and globally competitive, advanced by a community of artisans and entrepreneurs for the benefit of the Cordillera people

 “The CWIDP converges both the governments and private sector’s initiatives towards a competitive and sustainable weaving industry,” Bantog said.

The organized Cordillera Weaving Industry Council (CWIC) is the recognized body to implement CWIDP.

In his message, DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña congratulated and gave his full support to all the stakeholders in the weaving sector.

“May our partnership with key agencies and lead institutions guide the region towards a competitive and sustainable weaving industry for the benefit of the community,” he said.  “This is a testament that through Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), we can improve the lives of our people.”

During the launching, a press conference was also held with the Philippine Information Agency and local media with stakeholders from across the region such as the academe, line agencies (Department of Trade and Industry-CAR and  National Economic Development Authority-CAR), local government units and weaver groups (West Quirino Hill Women’s Organization, Share Weavers Association, The Conquerors Assoc. of Middle Quirino Hill, D’ Dreamers Association, Bloom Weavers Association, Agape Weavers Association, Blessed Hope Association, Ubob-on Di Babae ed  Cypress Irisan, Kulibangbang Weavers, Highland Women Multi-purpose Cooperative, and Weaving Arts and Crafts of Tublay).

As chair of the CWIC, DOST-CAR has organized the Cordillera Weaving Industry Summit from July 26-30, 2021, in time with the 34th Cordillera Month celebration. Activities include face-to-face and virtual webinars, trainings and workshops for local weavers on topics such as contemporary fashion trends and basic handloom as well as marketing trends and opportunities in traditional and digital platforms. Different weaver groups from Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga and Mountain Province joined via live webcast of the events. (Christian Robert M. Sandoval-DOST CAR)