Handicraft plays a vital role in providing an alternative source of income among households in the countryside. Products produced from Cebu and Bohol are known worldwide because of their outstanding quality, unique designs and competitive costs. But unbeknownst to many, Mindanao, particularly Caraga, is abundant with raw materials for the handicraft industry.
To develop this potential, PGMC partnered with Cebu-based Giant Q Exports, one of the country’s top manufacturers and exporters of Philippine handicraft made from indigenous materials, to make Claver Surigao del Norte the center of handicraft production in CARAGA.
Through its 2019 Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), PGMC allocated 1 million pesos into developing a handicraft livelihood program. The program was started by providing hands-on training to residents barangays Cagdianao and Hayanggabon.
Sixty-two beneficiaries, between the ages 29 to 65 years old, underwent training through the guidance of industry experts. At present, many of their products are already being sold for export.