As sustainable fashion industry gains significant momentum in recent years, a group of weavers from the Municipality of Braulio E. Dujali in Davao has successfully capitalized on Davao del Norte’s thriving banana industry and is now breaking into the international market for sustainable fashion with what used to be the lowly “bayong”, a bag or basket made of indigenous material.
The Banana Fiber Weavers Livelihood Association (BAFWELA) responded to the demand for sustainable fashion and spearheaded the innovation of the bayong.
BAFWELA uses their banana fiber and recycled plastic straps as major material for their bayong fashion bags. They provide a biodegradable, eco-friendly, and durable alternative to synthetic materials, while also generating livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The sustainable fashion industry has gained significant momentum in recent years. According to a recent report by Coherent Market Insights, the global sustainable fashion market, valued at USD 7.8 billion in 2023, is on a trajectory of rapid expansion, with projections indicating that it may soar to USD 33.05 billion by 2030. Consumers increasingly shift toward sustainable alternatives, seeking products that minimize environmental impact.
The beginning
BAFWELA started as a joint project back in 2019. What started as an initiative of Abel Pagatpat of Dujali’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO) has blossomed into a successful venture with the support of the Department of Trade and Industry Davao Del Norte Provincial Office (DTI Davao del Norte), through the Negosyo Center.
On December 11, 2019, the association was officially registered with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), signaling the beginning of a remarkable journey to address the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to abaca fiber.
Initially envisioned as a modest banana fiber supplier, the association quickly established its footing within the industry, with MUSA Fabric as its primary market. BAFWELA impressed Gleizl Joy Soo, MUSA Fabric’s founder, who recognized the quality and potential of their textiles. This partnership bolstered the group’s confidence and provided steady orders, laying the groundwork for future growth.
Of challenges and determination
The association’s inception coincided with a period of profound economic struggle, where many in their community grappled with the challenge of finding sustainable livelihoods. Despite possessing expertise in banana fiber weaving, artisans faced limited opportunities for growth and recognition, prompting them to explore alternative paths to success.
Among their biggest struggles were the limited availability of weaving equipment and raw materials, a lack of business expertise, and difficulties in marketing their products beyond their locality. However, BAFWELA remained resilient.
“There were times when we thought of giving up, especially when orders were low and expenses were high,” BAFWELA vice president Angelita Dalisay said. “But we reminded ourselves why we started – to provide opportunities for our fellow artisans and to showcase the beauty of our craftsmanship.”
To overcome these hurdles, the association actively sought partnerships with government agencies and NGOs. With the help of DTI Davao del Norte, they received business training, marketing assistance, and product development support. They obtained livelihood grants from DOLE to purchase additional looms and raw materials. Their perseverance paid off as they steadily grew their market and expanded their product line.
Determined to carve out a niche for themselves, the association set ambitious objectives. They aimed not only to revitalize traditional crafts but also to establish their municipality as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Their vision transcended mere economic prosperity, encompassing social empowerment and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Bayong
Embracing the ethos of innovation, the association embarked on a transformative journey. Leveraging their proficiency in banana fiber weaving, they reimagined the iconic bayong, a bag or basket made of indigenous material, infusing it with contemporary flair and promoting sustainability by integrating recycled materials such as plastic straps.
Significant milestones punctuated the association’s journey. Collaborations with local authorities and national agencies, including the DTI and DOLE, provided vital support and legitimacy, propelling their endeavors forward. Additionally, other national agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) expressed keen interest in supporting their enterprises through promotional and product development programs.
Witnessing the potential of their crafted bags and recognizing the broad market appeal and flexibility of their products, these entities eagerly sought to contribute to the association’s growth and success.
Moreover, a significant boost to the enterprise came from their very own municipality mayor, Leah Marie Moral-Romano, who served as their product ambassador. Mayor Romano passionately championed their locally made products in all available market channels, leveraging her position to promote the bayong bags as the quintessential identity of local craftsmanship. Her unwavering support and advocacy not only enhanced the visibility of the association’s products but also instilled a sense of pride and belonging within the community. Mayor Romano’s dedication further solidified the association’s position as a symbol of local ingenuity and cultural heritage, paving the way for broader recognition and success in both local and national markets.
Through perseverance and innovation, the association swiftly garnered recognition as the premier source of fashion bayong bags in the entire province of Davao del Norte. Their products, infused with a distinctive blend of tradition and modernity, captivated local audiences and garnered widespread acclaim. At every trade fair, major stakeholders eagerly sought the presence of the fashionable bayong, proud to showcase the artistic and creative arts embodied in their craft.
Now, their exceptional craftsmanship has begun attracting attention from the international market, as discerning buyers from around the globe recognize the unique allure and quality of their products.
Journey to success
The journey imparted invaluable lessons. The association gleaned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and collaboration. They realized that success transcends individual achievement, emphasizing the significance of collective effort and community support. They empowered marginalized sectors, created employment opportunities, and breathed new life into cultural heritage. One significant aspect of their impact was their partnership with the Department of Interior and Local Government through the Bureau of Corrections, collaborating with artists who are persons deprived of liberty as suppliers for some of the components of their fashion bayong bags.
This innovative collaboration provided meaningful work for individuals within the correctional system and infused the products with a unique and authentic artistic flair. Additionally, they actively invited women from various barangays across their municipality to join their weaving association, providing them with a new source of income while celebrating their craftsmanship.
The association’s growth became a beacon of hope for artisans and entrepreneurs, highlighting how creativity, perseverance, and collaborative efforts can empower communities and drive meaningful change for society as a whole.
BAFWELA has established itself as the leading producer of fashion bayong bags in Davao del Norte, securing long-term partnerships with local and international buyers. Through its expansion, the organization has provided sustainable income opportunities to more weavers, contributing to community livelihood. Its commitment to sustainable fashion has earned it various grants and awards, further solidifying its reputation in the industry. Additionally, BAFWELA has showcased its products at national and international trade fairs, gaining wider recognition and market reach.
The DTI Davao del Norte is steadfast in its commitment to helping BAFWELA reach greater heights. By providing ongoing business training, marketing assistance, and product development support, the agency ensures that BAFWELA continues to evolve and expand its market reach. “Our dedication to nurturing local enterprises underscores our mission to drive economic growth and sustainable development within the province,” DTI-Davao del Norte provincial director Atty. Zerline Balleque said.
