Antique MSMEs at the National Arts and Crafts Fair 2024 (October 23-27, 2024)

This year, I am proud to highlight the participation of 18 community-based MSMEs from my home province of Antique, including the Antique Development Foundation, Buri Handicraft Association, Inc. (BUHAI), Sto. Rosario Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Bagtason Loomweavers Association, Patnongon Weaving Center, Patadyong Apparel, Malabor Abaca-Piña Weavers Association, Tibiao Active Weavers and Knotters Association, Francia Handicrafts Manufacturing, Bari Farmers and Potters Association, Amayaren Jewelry Accessories Shop, Organisasyon Kang Mga Libertadnon Para Sa Pag-Uswag, United Group of Weavers at Dapdap, Inc. (UGWAD), Ramon Magsaysay Bamboocrafters Association, Callan Basic Ecclesial Community Livelihood Association, Produkto Antiqueño, Latazon Indigenous Peoples Organization, and Ariana Coco Products.

Note that these micro enterprises were non existent before I helped them, while some were struggling to survive. As principal author of the Magna Carta for msme, I am happy to help ensure that they are supported.

These MSMEs brought a diverse array of products—from banig bags and fashion accessories to handwoven patadyong and piña-abaca cloth, buri hats and placemats showcasing the rich weaving traditions and craftsmanship of Antiqueños.

Over the years, I have extended comprehensive support to the Antique MSMEs and their communities through various initiatives, such as the establishment of weaving centers and natural dye processing centers. We have also supported the establishment of local cotton farms, provided essential equipment, and conducted trainings and other livelihood projects that uplift local weavers and artisans. These efforts ensure that Antique’s heritage is preserved while helping them access new markets and sustain their livelihoods. I am grateful to the mayors from Antique who attended the opening ceremony, showing their appreciation and support for my initiatives. Their presence reflects a shared dedication to empowering our kasimanwa and uplifting our local MSMEs.

The NACF is a project I conceptualized and supported in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

Gani, sa akun mga kasimanwa, suportahan natun ang mga ubra kang mga Antiqueño – ang katandus kag talento simbolo kang atun bugana nga manggad kag kultura. (Translation: Kung kaya, mga kasimanwa, suportahan natin ang mga likha ng mga Antiqueño—ang kasipagan at talento ay simbolo ng ating yaman at kultura.)