Bacolod creative hub-trained sewers produce market-ready creations

BACOLOD CITY — 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).

The project is a step toward building sustainable livelihoods and creative enterprises for Bacolodnons.

Five of the 24 graduates, who attended the pilot G-Hive Artisan Makers Bootcamp Sewing Track last week, received awards.

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The recognition was in the spirit of “celebrating their potential transformed into skill, passion transformed into craft, and being artisans empowered to create with purpose.”

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DLEDIP head and city investment officer Frances Mae Llamas said on Wednesday that through the G-Hive initiative, they provide training programs and learning opportunities for Bacolodnons.

Llamas said these actions are meant to develop practical skills, strengthen creativity, and explore pathways toward livelihood and entrepreneurship.

“G-Hive was created to provide our local talent with a clear pathway from grassroots passion to global opportunity,” the officer said. “These 24 graduates have proven that when our artisans receive systemic support, they 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.

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Vivo Handmade founder Vida Hayes, one of the first batches of participants, was awarded the Most Improved Artisan Award.

“As an entrepreneur, I really appreciate this opportunity. As an artisan, it is very important to learn and know your craft. This project is very valuable. It will help a lot of people,” she added.

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Roselyn Olchondra received the Artisan Excellence Award; Jeanne Marie Alindog – Most Creative Maker Award; Elvira Prado – Master of Precision Award; and Elizabeth Abad – Outstanding Artisan Spirit Award.

Youngest participant Zoey Tuclaud, 23, said she is thankful for the opportunity to be part of the G-Hive Artisan Makers Bootcamp for free and invited those who are interested to learn to also enroll in the program. 

“I can use the knowledge and skills I learned if ever I decide to proceed with putting up my own business. I learned so much in sewing, cutting, and how to use the sewing machine properly,” she added.

Interior designer and educator Jinky Cantancio, one of the trainers, said the instructors guided participants in transforming preloved canvas materials into beautiful and useful tote bags.

“As one of the trainers/facilitators of the pilot batch, I had the privilege to be part of something special. We are part of discovering the skills and creativity that can become opportunities for livelihood and entrepreneurship for Bacolodnons,” she shared.

After completing the bootcamp on Aug. 24 to 28, the first batch of graduates take with them a certified portfolio, a business/production plan, technical confidence, and a maker network.

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The second batch of participants will undergo training on Sept. 28 to Oct. 2 and the third batch, on Oct. 26 to 30. /apl