Southern Philippine City Ignites Cultural Revival To Skyrocket Tourism Growth

Published on October 3, 2024

The local government of Cagayan de Oro, a key city in the southern Philippines, has unveiled its initiative to rejuvenate the region’s traditional pottery and weaving industries. This revival forms part of a larger strategy aimed at boosting local tourism and enhancing trade opportunities.

Joyleen Balaba, a councillor representing the second district of Cagayan de Oro, announced the city’s intention to revive its traditional pottery and weaving industries, which have been long-standing cultural and economic staples. According to Balaba, the city council is actively working with local artisans and officials from various sectors to breathe new life into these industries. Their goal is not only to preserve Cagayan de Oro’s cultural heritage but also to provide new economic opportunities for artisans whose crafts have faded over time.

One of the primary focuses of this initiative is the pottery trade, locally referred to as “kolon.” Balaba emphasized the significance of kolon, which has been an integral part of the community’s cultural identity for generations. Efforts are underway to restore this tradition by empowering local potters and creating avenues for the next generation to learn and continue the craft. The city council believes that revitalizing kolon will not only attract tourism but also open up new opportunities for these handmade products to be exported globally.

In addition to pottery, the city is placing a strong emphasis on traditional weaving practices, especially in the rural districts where Indigenous communities reside. These communities have a deep history of weaving, and the patterns, techniques, and materials they use are unique to their culture. Balaba mentioned that they are in the process of gathering more data about these practices to better understand their current state and how to effectively integrate them into the broader cultural revival.

Balaba expressed that one of the city’s goals is to position these native crafts—both pottery and weaving—not only as tourist attractions but also as viable products with significant export potential. She pointed out that the city’s rich heritage in craftsmanship could give it an edge in the global market, especially as there is growing interest in authentic, handmade products. By boosting these industries, the city council hopes to create sustainable livelihoods for artisans and boost the local economy.

Historically, Cagayan de Oro’s Bulua district was well-known for its artisanal pottery production, which thrived for over three decades. This district was not only home to skilled potters but also had access to high-quality clay that was sourced locally. This allowed the community to develop a pottery style that was distinct to the region, drawing interest from both locals and visitors alike. The council believes that re-establishing Bulua as a pottery hub will enhance its appeal as a cultural destination.

Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bulua district was home to the annual Kolon Festival, which celebrated the craftsmanship and heritage of local potters. The festival served as a platform for showcasing the skills of these artisans, while also promoting their products to a wider audience. Balaba shared that the council is exploring ways to bring back the festival, possibly with added features that highlight both pottery and weaving, to draw even more visitors and participants in the future.

Aside from reviving cultural practices, this initiative is also rooted in the city’s broader strategy to develop local tourism. Cagayan de Oro has long been known as an adventure tourism destination, but city officials believe that highlighting its cultural and artisanal heritage could broaden its appeal. The city council aims to integrate traditional crafts into local tourism packages, offering visitors a more immersive experience that includes pottery workshops, weaving demonstrations, and cultural tours.

Balaba also mentioned that they are considering collaborations with universities and vocational schools to create training programs centered on pottery and weaving. By involving educational institutions, the city hopes to ensure that these crafts are passed down to future generations and that students have the opportunity to turn these skills into viable careers. The city council is optimistic that these training programs will not only preserve traditional skills but also inspire innovation in craft production.

Another key aspect of the revival plan is the creation of artisan cooperatives, which would provide local craftsmen with the support and resources needed to scale their operations. These cooperatives could help artisans with marketing, distribution, and product development, allowing them to reach broader markets. Balaba believes that establishing such cooperatives will foster a sense of community among artisans and strengthen the local craft industry as a whole.

Balaba highlighted the importance of promoting these crafts in a sustainable manner. The council is looking into eco-friendly production methods and ethical sourcing of materials, particularly in the case of weaving, where natural fibers are used. By ensuring that the revival of these industries aligns with sustainability goals, the city hopes to attract ethically conscious tourists and buyers who value responsible craftsmanship.

In conclusion, the city of Cagayan de Oro is making a concerted effort to restore its traditional pottery and weaving industries as part of a broader cultural revival. By involving local artisans, educational institutions, and the tourism sector, the city aims to position itself as a destination that celebrates its rich heritage while also creating new economic opportunities. Through this initiative, the city council hopes to preserve these invaluable crafts for future generations while promoting them as globally marketable products.