Livelihood Grant Elevates the Chumma-ay Weavers and Bead-makers Association

Leonard Faustino

October 23, 2024

A collection of colorful beaded decorations with red, yellow, green, and white patterns from the Bead-makers Association is displayed closely together.

Bead work by the Chumma-ay Weavers and Bead-makers Association members.

September 18, Lubuagan, Kalinga––Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines awarded a livelihood grant of ₱500,000 to the Chumma-ay Weavers and Bead-makers Association for the purchase of essential raw materials.

The grant turnover ceremony was attended by notable figures, including DSWD FO CAR Regional Director Maria A. Catbagan-Aplaten, represented by Assistant Regional Director for Operations Enrique H. Gascon Jr.; GPF Philippines Executive Director Leonard T. Faustino, represented by Kier Aventurado and Jocelyn Florentino-Remigio; Municipal Mayor Joel B. Tagaotao, represented by Atty. Jet-Jet James B. Tagaotao; Governor James Edduba, represented by Mr. Sison Paut; and the 32 women members of the association.

People wearing traditional clothing and brown shirts with

Chumma-ay Weavers and Bead-makers Association members.

On September 16, 2024, a Financial Literacy Training and Capability Intervention was conducted for the Chumma-ay Association at Mabilong, Lubuagan, Kalinga. The program aimed to equip members with the skills to assess their financial reports, improve record-keeping, and develop strategies for enhancing their financial stability, particularly in managing inventories and budgeting.

During the training, speakers such as Provincial Development Officer Ms. Aida H. David, MSWD Officer Ms. Ophelia Addom, and Municipal Administrator Atty. James B. Tagaotao emphasized the importance of financial management, record-keeping, teamwork, unity, and effective leadership for the association’s members. They underscored how Financial Literacy Training can empower weavers and bead makers by providing them with essential knowledge in financial management.

A group of five people stands together holding documents in front of a table, with banners highlighting the Livelihood Grant awarded to the Chumma-ay Weavers in the background.

Grant turnover ceremony awards the Chumma-ay Weavers and Bead-makers Association.

The training featured resource speakers, including Ms. Duanee B. Manangbao from the Municipal Budget Office, Ms. Jocelyn F. Remegio of the Global Peace Foundation Philippines, and Ms. Melody Wacay Cuyanggan of SWAD Kalinga. They shared valuable insights on basic record-keeping, budgeting, and investment strategies. The program was facilitated by Sharmaine P. Chocowen. GPF Philippines Executive Director Leonard Faustino shared in his message, “Kalinga is known for its rich culture and vibrant arts. In every thread of fabric and every bead you create, you narrate the story of our people, our identity, and our hopes. Your products are not just exquisite; they are symbols of strength, courage, and talent.”

A group of people wearing traditional clothing perform a dance in a room adorned with banners, celebrating the Chumma-ay Weavers and Bead-makers Association.

Weavers and Bead-makers performance shows artistry of the association’s work.

This livelihood initiative is supported by the Global Peace Foundation Philippines, Bless Microfinance Corporation, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development

Cordillera Administrative Region, highlighting a collective effort to uplift the local community and preserve the traditions and heritage of the province of Kalinga.