“Bili na kayo!” MinDA Helps Basilan Bajaus Sell Hand-Woven Bags, Mats

The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) will launch a marketing program to help sell beautiful hand-woven Pandan mats, bags and house decors made by the Bajau women of Maluso, Basilan.

The Bajau women, supported by the Bajau Apostolate of the Prelature of Basilan under the Claretian Fathers, could also make other items out of Pandan based on the requests of the buyers.

Those who are interested in buying the Bajau products could contact MinDA Asst. Secretary Cherry Akbar at 0917-722-3246 or the Office of the MinDA Chairman through mayette.tudlas@minda.gov.ph.

MinDA would also like to invite known designers and artists to help the Bajaus by submitting designs and product ideas so that they could produce high-value items.

In spite of our meager resources, MinDA will also provide support funds for the Bajau Program under Fr. Efren Decreto to boost Pandan production and acquire additional sewing machines.

By buying their products and supporting them with designs and marketing assistance, we would be able to help this tribe in shedding off the age-old image as beggars and wandering gypsies.

#KungGustoMaramingParaan!

#crossingseastotouchlives!

#MahalinAngKapwaPilipino!

(I personally took these photos of the Bajau women at work and their products during a visit to the Bajau Wellness Center of the Claretian Fathers in Maluso Basilan Tuesday, March 9.)