The Banana Fiber Weavers Livelihood Association (BAFWELA) has transformed banana fiber and recycled materials into handcrafted bayong bags, showcasing a blend of tradition, innovation, and eco-conscious craftsmanship.
With the global shift toward sustainable alternatives, BAFWELA’s efforts align with a growing market.
A Coherent Market Insights report estimates that the sustainable fashion industry, valued at $7.8 billion in 2023, could reach $ 33.05 billion by 2030, highlighting the increasing consumer preference for environmentally friendly products.
From small beginnings to a growing enterprise
BAFWELA was launched in 2019 as a community livelihood initiative. What started as a local employment project led by Abel Pagatpat of the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) quickly evolved into a sustainable business, backed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao del Norte through its Negosyo Center program.
On Dec. 11, 2019, BAFWELA was officially registered with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Initially, the group focused on supplying banana fiber, but soon found its niche in fashionable, handcrafted bayong bags.
Their partnership with social enterprise MUSA Fabric and its founder, Gleizl Joy Soo, provided them with a steady market and the confidence to expand , according to the DTI.
Soo, the DTI said, recognized the high quality and potential of BAFWELA’s textiles, helping the association establish a foothold in the sustainable fashion industry.
Overcoming challenges with resilience
BAFWELA’s success did not come without challenges. Limited access to weaving equipment, raw materials, and business expertise made scaling up difficult. Also, marketing their products outside their locality posed a significant hurdle.
“There were times when we thought of giving up, especially when orders were low and expenses were high,” said BAFWELA vice president Angelita Dalisay. “But we reminded ourselves why we started—to provide opportunities for our fellow artisans and to showcase the beauty of our craftsmanship.”
Determined to push forward, BAFWELA sought government support and partnered with DTI Davao del Norte, DOLE, and local NGOs to gain access to business training, marketing assistance, and livelihood grants. These initiatives provided additional looms, raw materials, and business development guidance, allowing the association to expand.
Innovation and sustainability at the core
BAFWELA took a creative approach by integrating recycled plastic straps into traditional bayong bags, making them not only biodegradable but also durable and eco-friendly. This innovation blends traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality, appealing to a wider market.
Their efforts caught the attention of local officials, including Mayor Leah Marie Moral-Romano, who actively promoted BAFWELA’s products. Through trade fairs and government-backed programs, the association’s handcrafted bags gained exposure locally and internationally.
Building a sustainable and inclusive community
BAFWELA’s impact extends beyond business. The association collaborates with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Bureau of Corrections, involving persons deprived of liberty in crafting bag components. This initiative provides meaningful work and a second chance for reintegration into society.
Additionally, BAFWELA empowers women weavers from different barangays by offering them a sustainable source of income while preserving their cultural heritage.
Today, BAFWELA is the leading producer of fashion bayong bags in Davao del Norte. The association has secured long-term partnerships with local and international buyers, providing employment and uplifting the lives of many artisans.
The road ahead: Scaling up, expanding markets
With continued support from DTI Davao del Norte, BAFWELA is poised for further growth. The agency remains committed to helping the association expand its market reach through business training, product innovation, and marketing assistance.
“Our dedication to nurturing local enterprises underscores our mission to drive economic growth and sustainable development within the province,” said DTI-Davao del Norte Provincial Director Atty. Zerline Balleque.
As BAFWELA continues to scale up production, it remains a symbol of resilience, innovation, and community-driven success, proving that sustainability and economic empowerment can go hand in hand. — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
