Kiangan: The push to preserve the world-renowned Ifugao rice terraces has also helped protect another important cultural treasure - the province's centuries-old weaving tradition. Marlon Martin, chief operating officer of the Save the Ifugao Terraces Movement (SITMO), noted that weaving was introduced as an additional source of income for rice farmers, ensuring that they continue cultivating 'tinawon,' an heirloom rice variety used in rituals and for brewing bayah (rice wine).
According to Philippines News Agency, Martin explained during a Department of Tourism-Cordillera familiarization tour in Kiangan, Ifugao, that the income from rice farming was no longer sufficient to meet the modern needs of Ifugao families, such as sending children to school. Weaving was identified as an activity that could provide income without requiring significant cultural changes. The tinawon rice takes nearly 10 months to grow and yields low economic returns, as most of it is kept for household use or rice wine production.
In response, SITMO sought alternative livelihood options tied to cultural heritage. Martin emphasized that weaving was chosen because it is embedded in Ifugao culture and offers a more immediate source of income. Currently, SITMO has more than 60 weavers, with about 45 actively working at the Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Center. Initially, traditional designs were used, but weavers adapted to client demands while respecting tradition. They have expanded their product range to include apparel and other items, minimizing fabric wastage by creating mixed designs or small craft items from leftover pieces.
For weaver Divine Balangtao Calingayan, weaving has been a lifelong pursuit. She began weaving as a child, learning from her mother, and now encourages her daughters to weave in their spare time to earn extra income and save for the future. Although her daughters may not fully understand cultural preservation, they are beginning to appreciate weaving's relevance in their lives.
SITMO's advocacy extends beyond weaving, seeking support from the national government to ensure the welfare of cultural preservation advocates. Martin highlighted the importance of recognizing the efforts of weavers, who invest significant time and skill into creating their products. The organization ensures that weavers are promptly paid for their work, with their creations showcased at 'Ifugao Nation,' a Kiangan store also featuring hand-carved woodcrafts, blacksmith works, and bamboo products made by farmer-artisans.
