11/05/2026
DTI Kalinga, through the OTOP Next Gen Program, successfully conducted the 3-Day Training on “Material Mix and Match: Integrating Kalinga Weave and Natural Materials for Sustainable Bag Design” last May 6–8, 2026 at the DTI-Kalinga Provincial Office, with fifteen (15) MSMEs from the Wearables and Homestyle sectors actively participating.
During Days 1 and 2, Ms. Edna Bautista-Norial of Love Nature Farm introduced participants to the intricate process of cacao leaves fossilization - from leaf selection and cleaning, leaf dyeing, drying and pressing, proper gluing techniques, to varnishing — transforming cacao leaves into elegant, handcrafted creations. At the end of Day 2, participants produced fossilized cacao wall frames, wall decor, lamps, and fashion accessories that highlighted both creativity and sustainability.
On Day 3, Ms. Jajie Bula-ay of Jajie’s Native Fashion shared her expertise in sustainable bag design by combining fossilized cacao leaves with the Kalinga textile, resulting in unique and innovative handcrafted bags. The combination of cacao leaves and woven accents creates a unique eco-friendly fashion piece inspired by nature and local craftsmanship. The use of cacao leaves as material demonstrated how agricultural by-products can be transformed into high-value handcrafted products, opening opportunities for MSMEs to develop eco-friendly and market-driven innovations while promoting environmental sustainability, resourcefulness, and the appreciation of locally available materials.
This initiative reflects DTI Kalinga’s continued commitment to empowering local MSMEs, preserving indigenous craftsmanship, and promoting sustainable and innovative product development rooted in culture and creativity.