By PR | 07:38 PM October 26, 2024
The province of Bohol made a triumphant debut at the prestigious Manila Fame 2024, held from October 17-19 at the World Trade Center, where its Bahandi Artisans Village brought in an impressive P30,780,000 in sales.
As one of the most visited booths, Bohol’s exhibit showcased the province’s rich cultural heritage and artisanal craftsmanship, captivating both local and international buyers.
Bohol’s participation in the Manila Fame international trade fair was not just a commercial success but also an affirmation of its status as a Unesco Global Geopark. The island province, known for its unique geological formations and vibrant cultural traditions, demonstrated how its community-based enterprises are deeply intertwined with its natural and cultural heritage.
The Bahandi Artisans Village featured a carefully curated triptych, offering visitors a glimpse into Bohol’s traditional crafts. One panel showcased the legendary ‘asin tibook’, or unbroken salt, a delicacy with a fine texture and a distinct smoky-sweet flavor. Visitors were not only intrigued by its taste but also fascinated by its centuries-old production method.
Another panel offered hands-on experiences in raffia weaving, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship behind this traditional Boholano fabric. The third panel honored Boholano painter Elvin Vitor, an awardee of the Leonardo da Vinci International Prize, whose tribute to Yoyoy Villame found a new home with an art collector just before the exhibit ended.
Interspersed throughout the village were beautifully crafted items made from local materials such as raffia, bamboo, rattan, romblon, and ‘sig-id’, further demonstrating Bohol’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, which aligns with the province’s geopark status.
The provincial government of Bohol, under the leadership of Governor Aris Aumentado, played a key role in ensuring the success of the Bohol artisans at Manila Fame.
Aumentado’s administration has focused on strategic change initiatives that prioritize inclusive growth, providing opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive.
Through the combined efforts of the Bohol Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (Bedipo), the Governor’s Office Center for Culture and Arts Development (Ccad), and the Department of Trade and Industry, the artisans were able to participate in the event with subsidized costs and technical support. This collaboration allowed Bohol’s MSMEs to showcase their products on an international stage, highlighting not only their craftsmanship but also their role in sustainable livelihood programs that support local communities.
Aumentado’s support is part of his administration’s broader agenda to uplift the lives of Boholanos by promoting local products, increasing market access, and fostering partnerships. By participating in high-profile events like Manila Fame, Bohol is securing new opportunities for its artisans while showcasing the province’s cultural and environmental wealth to the world.
The Bohol contingent at Manila Fame was supported by various groups, including the Bohol Association in Metro Manila, Inc. (Bammi), Tapok-tapok Bol-anon, and Tigum Bol-anon sa Tibuok Kalibutan (TBTK). Their presence not only provided a warm welcome but also extended hospitality to the Bohol delegation.
Reps. Maria Vanessa Aumentado and Kristine Alexie Tutor, both strong advocates for local development, expressed their appreciation for the collaborative effort that made Bohol’s participation in Manila Fame a resounding success.
Bohol’s artisans have not only brought home significant sales but also left an indelible mark on the international stage, proving that their craftsmanship is a vital part of the province’s ongoing journey towards sustainable development and global recognition as a Unesco Global Geopark. (CCAD-Gavin/PIMO-ML)
