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The Department of Science and Technology-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) and several agencies in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will work together to further boost the local carving industry in Lanao del Sur.

Through the “Likhain at Linangin Obra mula sa Kahoy (LiLOK): Valuing the Wood Carving Industry in the Philippines” program, DOST-FPRDI, Ministry of Science and Technology-BARMM (MOST- BARMM), Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism-BARMM (MTIT-BARMM), and the Local Government Unit of Tugaya, Lanao del Sur, will assist Tugaya wood carvers in improving their product quality and marketability.

Tugaya artisans are known for their exceptional craftsmanship in wood carving and brassware making, which display Okir and other Maranao art patterns. Characterized by geometric and symbolic elements, Okir is a unique pattern or design that reflects the beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Maranaos.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. expressed his support for the initiative, emphasizing its importance in addressing the challenges faced by the local wood carving industry. “We are confident that the LiLOK program will significantly contribute to the development of the local wood carving industry in the Philippines. Indeed, there are science-based solutions even for challenges related to arts and culture,” said Secretary Solidum.

“We are very grateful to have collaborated with our partners from the BARMM in this remarkable initiative. Again, this is another milestone project for DOST-FPRDI as we continue our commitment to use science, technology and innovation to protect and preserve our local culture,” explained DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon.

Local wood carvers have identified challenges, including issues with drying, finishing and preservation of wood. They also raised concerns about the dwindling supply of raw materials, and the declining interest in carving, particularly among women and youth.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing took place on December 2, 2024, at the Provincial Tourism Office, Marawi, Lanao del Sur. Among the attendees were DOST-FPRDI Director Cabangon, MOST Lanao del Sur Provincial Director Alinader Sarangani, MTIT BARMM Lanao del Sur Provincial Director Mohammad Aquil A. Mamanite, and LiLOK Project Leader Jennifer M. Conda.

The LiLOK program seeks to boost the wood carving industry by documenting a locality’s rich cultural history and mapping its value chain to recommend solutions for market expansion. The initiative will also address gender issues and provide technical training and upskilling to encourage greater participation among women and youth in the wood carving industry.

Additionally, the initiative will harmonize policies governing the wood carving sector with support from the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), and the UP Los Baños Forestry Development Center (FDC).

It is funded by the DOST-National Research Council of the Philippines, and is being implemented in collaboration with UPOU and UPLB-FDC. Aside from Tugaya, Lanao del Sur, the program is also partnering with the carving communities of Brgy. Hapao, Hungduan, Ifugao; Brgy. Santa Ursula, Guagua, Pampanga; Municipality of Paete, Laguna; Brgys. Abo-Abo, Panitan and Isumbo, Sofronio Española, Palawan; and Brgy. Janagdong, Mogpog, Marinduque. ### (Apple Jean C. Martin-de Leon & Julius Pelegrina, 04 December 2024)

 

(From left to right) MOST Lanao del Sur Provincial Director Alinader Sarangani, MTIT BARMM Lanao del Sur Provincial Director Mohammad Aquil A. Mamanite, DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon and LiLOK Program Leader Jennifer M. Conda led the MOA signing last 02 December 2024.

Baor or carved wooden chest (left), and wooden Sarimanok (right) adorned with traditional Maranao patterns