Sorsogon’s MSMEs and weavers trained on Abaca Slippers Making

Local weavers are so enthusiastic to learn the slippers making.

By: Bennie A. Recebido

SORSOGON CITY, June 22 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Sorsogon conducted just recently a two-day skills training on abaca raw materials conversion into bedroom slippers, another product which will help augment the livelihood of the local folks living in abaca-rich producing communities of Sorsogon.

Abaca plant which scientific name is Musa textilis is one of the most popular plants in the Philippines, its by-products can be seen anywhere and is sold at many markets in the country like Sorsogon. Abaca is considered the strongest among natural fibers. Its strength, fitness, and versatility make it a preferred choice in making rope, bags, hats, slippers, and even clothes.

Trade and Industry Development Specialist Glenda N. Goingo said that the training which was conducted at Barangay San Pedro, Irosin, Sorsogon was attended by 20 Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs) and weavers coming from different barangays of Irosin and the neighboring towns of Bulusan.

According to Ms. Goingo, abaca slippers are one among the most promising products in the province. “There is just a need for our local weavers to be trained in order to get the right technical know-how,” she added.

“What is good about venturing on abaca products is because aside from it is native to us here in Sorsogon, it is also environmentally friendly,” she stressed out.

She also said that they wanted to maximize the utilization of raw materials in the area especially abaca, and develop new and viable products so as to create more employment in the locality and at the same time increase the sales of the MSMEs and augment income of those involved in the trade.

“We also would like to intensify advocacy and promotion on utilizing native products in support to the environment preservation program of the government,” she said. 

Sample of finished products.

Abaca slippers are made from dried abaca plants and leaves. These slippers can be produced either robustly or lightly but comfortable to wear. Weavers' nifty fingers create a fine, tight weave, giving the slippers their durability.

Tapped as trainer was Ms. Nona F. Nicerio, Owner/Manager of the “The Rains Handicraft” of Camalig, Albay assisted by her two workers. Ms. Nicerio is the President of Camalig Slippers Association.

Said training was implemented by DTI Sorsogon Provincial Office in coordination with St. Ann’s Service Cooperative (SAFSCO) based in Irosin, a grassroot cooperative, whose members are mostly farmers and handicraft weavers. (BARecebido, PIA Sorsogon)