Young mother as weaver

Young mother in Barangay Dancalan weaving karagumoy hats while a young son plays nearby. A typical village scene one can easily catch in a random afternoon visit.

Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

Karagumoy weaving suits the slow life

An afternoon of weaving in an open hut in Sitio Tawog, Bulusan and also a time to catch up with the news in the neighborhood for Vangie  and Hilda. Unhurried weaving can yield for her around 8 hats in a day, according to Hilda. When asked where the proceeds will go. She answered smiling : "for my cell phone load" but quickly added, "also for some household necessities  for the day."


Photo: Alma P. Gamil
Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

Bulusan karagumoy handwoven crafts

Products made of bariw, karagumoy and other pandan species may take another name in the international market. Lauhala is the more famous name for these products due mainly to the successful tourism industry of Hawaii. The products are distincty Pacific Islander style. It echoes the warm tropics and relax mode of life. Perfect for a vacation home by the sea as decorative accents and to complete an island resort feel.

In Bulusan, weaving these crafts are part of the daily chores already incorporated in the rural household activities. It is a supplemental livelihood for most of the rural families of farmers and fishermen.