by Julius T. Pelegrina, DOST-FPRDI
A new project from the Department of Science and Technology - Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) aims to support the wood carving industry in Paete, Laguna.
Titled “LiLOK: Likhain at Linangin Obra mula sa Kahoy: Valuing the Wood Carving Industry in the Philippines,” this initiative seeks to boost the local carving industry by documenting its rich cultural history and mapping its value chain to recommend solutions for market improvement.
The LiLOK project was launched during Paete’s Ukit-Taka Festival: Sabayang Pag-uukit on 28 September 2024, where at least 160 artisans simultaneously carved products using various media, including wood, ice, and fruits.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. recognized the project as a comprehensive initiative that uses science, technology, and innovation (STI) to address the challenges of the local wood carving industry.
“The project offers artisans the tools and resources needed to thrive in a competitive market, while allowing this traditional craft to evolve and develop even further,” said Secretary Solidum.
“We are optimistic that this new initiative will help find growth opportunities for Paete and other forest-dependent communities. Providing the needed policy and technological support will help boost employment and encourage more locals to participate in the wood carving industry,” explained DOST-FPRDI OIC Director Rico J. Cabangon.
DOST-FPRDI OIC Director Rico J. Cabangon delivers a message during the MOA signing of Project LiLOK at Paete’s Ukit-Taka Festival last 28 September 2024.
As part of the program, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between DOST-FPRDI, represented by OIC Director Cabangon, and the Paete Local Government Unit (LGU), represented by Municipal Mayor Ronald B. Cosico.
Paete artisans make use of wood and ice as carving medium.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Hon. Ruth Hernandez, 2nd District Representative for the Province of Laguna; Marites T. Castro, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Region IV-A; Hon. Marcelino H. Baiais, Committee Chairman on Tourism; Peter Jaynul Uckung, Recreation and Welfare Services Officer; and Hon. Virgilio L. Madridejos Jr., Municipal Vice Mayor.
The project will also address gender issues and provide technological training and upskilling opportunities to encourage greater participation among women and youth in the wood carving industry. Additionally, it will harmonize policies governing the wood carving sector with support from the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), UP Los Baños Forestry Development Center (FDC), and UP Diliman-Asian Center (AC).
Led by Forester Jennifer M. Conda, LiLOK is funded by the DOST-National Reseach Council of the Philippines, and being implemented in collaboration with UPOU, UPLB-FDC and UP Diliman- AC. #
