By Minvera BC Newman
CEBU CITY – The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in Central Visayas, supported by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is showcasing regional crafts and other products in the 4th Panaghiusa Festival mounted at the Ayala Center Cebu from December 11 to 12, 2018.
DSWD-7 regional director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre said the Panaghiusa Festival was established in 2014 to create public awareness and increase appreciation on the accomplishments and impact of the various programs and projects of the agency to reduce poverty at the countryside.
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Macapobre said the festival is also aimed at showcasing the positive impact of the programs in the lives of our partner-beneficiaries through their success stories and to empower them to become model and inspiration to others as well.
The two-day Panaghiusa (Unity) Festival displays and exhibits very affordable customized footwear, bags, apparels, souvenir items, sinamay and raffia products and crafts produced by Pantawid beneficiaries and other DSWD-supported community-based organizations in the region, Macapobre added.
“I am inviting the public again to visit the festival and buy SLP products as our way of supporting and helping our partner-beneficiaries improve their livelihood,” Macapobre added.
Products available include home decors such as native waste baskets, hand painted products such as dresses and shawls, products made from raffia, fashion accessories like necklace, bracelets, earrings, bags, belts, slippers, sandals; and various souvenir items made of recycled materials.
Macapobre said the opening salvo features partner-beneficiaries from various sectors to share their inspiring stories on how they rose above the difficulties in their lives and remain positive and resilient.
Other highlights of the festival are the awarding of the 2018 Regional Search for Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya, Exemplary Pantawid Pamilya Children, Indigenous People (IP) Model Community and Kalahi-CIDSS Bayani Ka! winners