San Remigio, Antique – The Ramon Magsaysay Bamboo Crafters Association, based in Barangay Ramon Magsaysay, San Remigio town, is seeking financial assistance to establish a weaving center. The group has requested PHP2.5 million from the office of Governor Rhodora Cadiao.
According to Philippines News Agency, known for producing bamboo baskets, trays, and sala sets, is looking for support to build a dedicated facility. The proposed weaving center would serve as a hub for their equipment and a showroom for their products.
Dimamay expressed hope that Governor Cadiao would give priority to the request, aiming for the center's construction to commence within this year or by 2025. Irele Mahimpit, the president of the association, shared plans to build the center on a 1,000-square meter plot donated to them in their barangay.
Mahimpit voiced optimism about the center's potential to enhance production capacity. "I am optimistic that with the center, we would be able to produce more bamboo products," she said. The association, which includes 33 members earning their livelihood through bamboo crafting, has already undergone training in engineered bamboo at the University of Antique (UA) Main Campus in Sibalom last year. They also possess equipment like a pole cutter machine provided by the university.
Currently, without a dedicated center, the association's members work from their homes, with the group assisting in marketing by participating in various trade fairs.