The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office X made strides in its mission to integrate science and technology (S&T) and promote grassroots innovations by supporting the Damugu Weavers Association through several interventions.
The DOST assistance includes the provision of an industrial high-speed sewing machine, training on synthetic dyeing in collaboration with the DOST-Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) and support in product promotions.
The support was made is through the Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) project. The initiative significantly enhanced production by 300 percent. The improved products, which had lasting and more vibrant colors, increased the selling price or value by 9 percent.
DOST-10 also supported the weavers in product promotions, trademark registration for intellectual property protection, and better packaging and labeling to empower them to reach broader markets.
“Beyond merely acknowledging and recognizing, DOST under the GRIND Program supports grassroots innovations to be more competitive,” said DOST assistant regional director and GRIND coordinator Virgilio M. Fuertes.
Recognizing the need for intervention to empower their organization, the president of the Damugu Weavers Association, Irene Mae L. Sinhayan, pledged full cooperation in implementing projects aimed at achieving positive outcomes for the IP weavers’ community of Barangay San Rafael, Talakag, Bukidnon.
Sinhayan, who initiated the formation of the Damugu Weavers Association in 2018, has witnessed the decline of weaving in her community. At its inception, the group consisted of only five weavers besides herself.
Still, despite the challenges, she was determined to revive and sustain the weaving tradition using “sudsud” (Cyperus rotundus). The plant thrives in moist soil and serves as the primary material for mats and other woven items.
Today, the Damugu Weavers Association comprises 37 indigenous members, predominantly Talaandig, ranging from 21 to 77 years old. They utilize the locally abundant sudsud grass, which their elders have found a way to manually process by drying, flattening and weaving into mats, and later turning it into a variety of other products, such as bags, laptop cases and table runners.
“Damugu” holds profound meaning in both the tribal dialects of the Higaonon and Talaandig people. It translates to “dream.” The evocative name embodies the aspirations and hopes of the Lumad weavers from Barangay San Rafael in Talakag.
Weaving, or “paglala,” has been a vital cultural practice among the native inhabitants since the 13th century. Traditionally, this intricate craft served as a means of creating functional items and a spiritual link, allowing the weavers to invoke protection and good health from the spirits. Through their meticulous work, weavers maintain a profound connection to their heritage and ancestors, ensuring the continuity of their rich cultural legacy. (Rashia Mae Deva E. Paano/DOST X)
