Baguio: The Baguio Creative City Council is aiming to rejuvenate the city's silver craft industry amidst challenges such as a decline in artisans and limited access to raw materials. Marie Venus Tan, co-chairperson of the Baguio Creative City Council, expressed the importance of revitalizing the silver craft industry, which has long been linked to Baguio, during a media interview.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tan highlighted that only two silver craft shops, Pilak Silvercraft and Gift Shoppe, and Tawid Silver, are currently operational in Baguio. These establishments face difficulties in securing raw materials due to their association with mining. Additionally, there is a noticeable decline in the number of artisans skilled in silver crafting.
To adapt to the evolving business environment, both shops have started offering experiential activities. Pilak Silvercraft, for example, now provides experiential tourism opportunities where customers can engage in crafting their own jewelry, including wedding rings. The shop is also exploring the possibility of becoming an accredited learning site for those interested in learning silver crafting.
Romar Agpes, a senior technical education and skills development specialist from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Benguet, mentioned that the agency offers scholarships and training programs that industries can use to enhance workers' skills or develop a pool of skilled workers. Agpes said that TESDA plans to collaborate with the silver craft shops to prepare a training module, although previous efforts to develop silver craft training were unsuccessful.
Agpes expressed confidence that silver crafting could be integrated into TESDA's skills training programs to help sustain the industry. Baguio Tourism Council chairperson Gladys Vergara added that the council is working to revive traditional industries in the city, including silver crafting, as part of efforts to preserve local heritage and create opportunities for younger generations. Other traditional industries under consideration for revival include woodcraft and leather footwear crafting.
