MATANAO, Davao del Sur — The Local Government Unit of Matanao, led by Mayor Irick A. Agbon, alongside TESDA, conducted a pivotal site tour at Havi Weaves Handicrafts on October 21, 2026. The event celebrated the official issuance of the Certificate of TVET Program Registration, marking a major milestone for local artisans.
A New Chapter for Local Weavers
This certification officially registers the Handloom Weaving (Upright) NC II and Handloom Weaving (Backstrap) NC II under the Enterprise-Based Education and Training Program. It represents a significant step in formalizing traditional crafts into recognized, highly structured training modules for the community.
Key agency leaders attended the milestone, including Usec. Felizard R. Colombo, TESDA XI Regional Director Tarhata S. Mapandi, Davao Occidental Provincial Director Alfredo V. Panuela Jr., and Davao del Sur Provincial Director Mohaisen R. Manalao. Their collective presence underscored the government's strong commitment to grassroots development.
Championing Enterprise-Based Education
This initiative aligns directly with the vision of TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez to champion EBET nationwide. By shifting the focus toward enterprise-driven training, the program ensures that the skills taught perfectly match the actual demands of the local creative industry.
Integrating training directly within the workplace allows artisans to learn in a highly practical environment. This methodology not only preserves traditional techniques but also equips weavers with modern entrepreneurial skills necessary for scaling their small businesses into competitive enterprises.
The program actively protects indigenous culture by recognizing the immense value of local heritage. Through structured educational modules, the invaluable knowledge passed down through generations is carefully documented, standardized, and elevated for future practitioners to study and master.
Revitalizing Grassroots Micro-Enterprises
The milestone embodies TESDA Region XI's CHERISH Program, which stands for Cultural Heritage Education and Revitalization through Inclusive Skills and Holistic Development. CHERISH transforms local weaving traditions into highly competitive micro-enterprises capable of generating sustainable income.
By empowering Matanao's traditional artisans, the initiative drives inclusive economic growth right from the grassroots level. It provides local families with reliable livelihood opportunities while keeping the vibrant cultural heritage of Davao del Sur firmly alive and thriving in the modern market.
The local government remains steadfast in supporting these creative industries through continuous partnerships with national agencies. Such collaborations ensure that the community's unique artistic identity remains a powerful driver for local economic prosperity and sustained cultural preservation.
A Sustainable Future for Artisans
Elevating traditional weaving into a certified trade opens new market opportunities for the artisans of Matanao. With formal accreditation, local products gain enhanced credibility, allowing them to penetrate broader commercial markets and command better pricing for their intricate work.
This strategic investment in human capital ensures the long-term sustainability of the local craft industry. As the weavers continue to hone their skills, they build resilient businesses that can adapt to modern market trends while maintaining their rich cultural heritage.
