Maluso, Basilan – The Bajaus, the seafaring tribe found in the borders of the Southern Philippines and Borneo, often stereo-typed as beggars, are turning out to be master weavers of beautiful mats and bags made out of Pandan leaves.
On Tuesday, during a quick visit to Maluso town arranged by Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Asst. Secretary Cherry Akbar and Maluso Vice Mayor Al Yasin, I met with the Bajau weavers in a facility established by the Claretian Order of the Catholic Church.
About 20 Bajau women are being assisted by the Bajau Samal Foundation of the Bajau Apostolate of the Basilan Prelature.
Fr. Efren Decreto, a Claretian missionary, said by weaving Pandan leaves which are made into colorful mats and bags, the Bajau women earn a decent income.
The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) had been asked to assist the program by providing additional sources of income for the Bajaus like dried fish making.
Those of us who care for these long neglected people could help by buying their products.
#ReachingOutToTheNeglected!
#CrossingSeasToTouchLives!
(Produced by the Beauty & Bounty of Mindanao Media Team for the Mindanao Development Authority.)
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