Gamay: Traditional woodcarvers in Anito village, Northern Samar, have transitioned from crafting large wooden masterpieces to creating small souvenir items for tourists. Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), stated in a phone interview that this shift ensures more stable income for the artisans.

According to Philippines News Agency, capacitating woodcarvers to produce souvenir items addresses the challenges associated with larger carvings, which required bigger buyers, specialized transport, and longer selling periods. As a result, many artisans struggled to maintain steady income despite their skills.

The project now emphasizes the production of keychains, utensils, and other souvenir items that are easier to sell and increasingly in demand due to the surge in Northern Samar's tourism industry. Berbon highlighted that visitors often seek authentic keepsakes, and handcrafted wooden items made by local artisans capture the community's culture and heritage.

PEDIPO recently conducted a wooden handicraft production training for Anito village woodcarvers, providing them with updated techniques to enhance design, durability, and market readiness. This training is part of an initiative supported by a PHP1.49-million grant from the Department of Labor and Employment's Integrated Livelihood Program and facilitated by PEDIPO under its Barangay Livelihood Empowerment and Sustainability Program.

For generations, Anito village woodcarvers have been recognized for their use of native woods such as bamboo, mango, coconut, kamagong, and hanagasi to create large wooden masterpieces, from religious statues to furniture, showcasing their craftsmanship.