Bacolod: Sewing artisans here have produced market-ready creations after an intensive training organized by the city's Department of Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions (DLEDIP) in a step toward building sustainable livelihoods and creative enterprises for Bacolodnons.
According to Philippines News Agency, five of the 24 graduates who attended the pilot G-Hive Artisan Makers Bootcamp Sewing Track last week received awards for their transformation of potential into skill and passion into craft, empowering them to create with purpose. DLEDIP head and city investment officer Frances Mae Llamas stated that the G-Hive initiative provides training programs and learning opportunities for Bacolodnons to develop practical skills, strengthen creativity, and explore pathways toward livelihood and entrepreneurship.
Llamas explained that G-Hive was created to offer local talent a clear pathway from grassroots passion to global opportunity. She emphasized that the 24 graduates have demonstrated that with systemic support, artisans can become true entrepreneurs. At the G-Hive facility located in Mansilingan Activity Center, participants learned to transform canvas, hablon (handwoven textile), and other local materials into contemporary, market-oriented products such as tote bags.
Vivo Handmade founder Vida Hayes, one of the first batch of participants, was awarded the Most Improved Artisan Award. Hayes expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, noting the importance of learning and mastering one's craft as an artisan. Other awardees included Roselyn Olchondra, who received the Artisan Excellence Award; Jeanne Marie Alindog, awarded the Most Creative Maker Award; Elvira Prado, who received the Master of Precision Award; and Elizabeth Abad, who was recognized with the Outstanding Artisan Spirit Award.
The youngest participant, 23-year-old Zoey Tuclaud, expressed her appreciation for being part of the G-Hive Artisan Makers Bootcamp for free and encouraged others interested in learning to enroll in the program. She shared that the skills learned, such as sewing and cutting, would be beneficial if she decides to start her own business.
Interior designer and educator Jinky Cantancio, one of the trainers, highlighted the instructors' role in guiding participants to transform preloved canvas materials into beautiful and useful tote bags. Cantancio mentioned the privilege of being part of a project that discovers skills and creativity that can lead to livelihood and entrepreneurship opportunities for Bacolodnons.
After completing the bootcamp from August 24 to 28, the first batch of graduates left with a certified portfolio, a business/production plan, technical confidence, and a maker network. The second batch of participants is scheduled to undergo training from September 28 to October 2, with the third batch set for October 26 to 30.
