Sarangani women learn beadwork

By JOY R. SEVILLA

ALABEL, Sarangani (February 1, 2014) – The Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO) has sponsored a beadwork skills training for some women leaders from Alabel, Malapatan and Maasim that intends to create livelihood in villages.

The January 28-31 training was held at the Department of Education (DepEd) Sarangani Division Office. It was an initiative of the PGO under its Strengthening Technological Advancement for Reforms (STAR) project.

“After this training, these 20 women leaders will already know how to make bags made of beads. Our speakers will be going to teach them how to package it, price it, and market it,” said Michelle Solon, wife of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon, who represented the latter during the event’s opening program.

“Kayong lahat na nandito ngayon, you are encouraged to also teach other women in the barangay. Natututo kayo hindi lang para sa sarili ninyo, but you will also be a blessing to others,” she added.

Rue Ramas, one of the speakers, said that one of the values that should be developed among Filipinos who want to start a business of their own is being helpful to others.

“Kahit kaunti pa lang ang natutunan mo, huwag kang magdamot na ibahagi ito sa iba kasi sa oras na ikaw naman ang mangailangan ng tulong, mayroon ding tutulong sayo. Dapat ganoon ang pananaw natin,” she said.

The other trainer was Gigi Blanco, an overseas worker from Hongkong, who also trains OFWs in beadwork.

Blanco said bags made of beads have a good market in Hongkong.

After the training, the women would form into small groups who are expected to apply what they have learned. (Joy R. Sevilla/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)