Weaving cultural and generational threads in rural Philippines: the livelihood, identity, and roles of elderly women artisans in Lalaguna

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26618/jm6zzn63

Keywords:

traditional weaving, women artisans, cultural heritage, community development, rural community

Abstract

Traditional weaving is a vital form of indigenous knowledge in Filipino culture. This study explores the livelihood, identity, and roles of elderly women artisans in Barangay Lalaguna, a small rural community in the Philippines. This also aims to inform heritage conservation, inclusive engagement, and culturally grounded community policies. Using a qualitative research design and inductive thematic analysis, the study examined the lived experiences of 16 elderly women weavers. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, with ethical protocols observed to ensure voluntary participation, confidentiality, and informed consent. Findings show that weaving serves both as a livelihood and as a cultural identity marker, deeply integrated into family life and rural community traditions. Although many women have passed on their skills to children or grandchildren, generational disinterest, migration, and modernization threaten the continuity of the craft. Despite these challenges, elderly women persist as cultural custodians and household economic contributors. The study supports the need for intergenerational learning programs, sustainable market access, and health support tailored for aging artisans. Beyond cultural significance, the findings underscore the importance of integrating weaving into cultural governance, heritage policy, and community development strategies to sustain the craft amid economic and generational change.

Author Biography

  • Reynald Cacho, Research, Extension, Quality Assurance and Development Office, Philippine Normal University South Luzon, Philippines
    Reynald M. Cacho, Ph.D., is a Professor of Educational Management and the Director for Research, Extension, Quality Assurance, and Development at the Philippine Normal University South Luzon Campus. He earned his Ph.D. in Knowledge Management and Innovation Management from the Institute for Knowledge and Innovation, South East Asia, at Bangkok University, Thailand. Additionally, he has completed doctoral units in the Doctor of Communication Program at the University of the Philippines Open University. His educational background includes a Master of Arts in Education with a specialization in Language and Literacy Education from the University of the Philippines and a Bachelor of Secondary Education degree with a major in English from the Philippine Normal University South Luzon.

    Dr. Cacho has a notable presence in academia, serving as a journal editor and peer reviewer for reputable indexed journals, including those verified by Web of Science. He has authored research papers, conducted presentations, written educational modules, organized training sessions, and participated in scientific and review committees. He has also taken the lead in various research projects, both at the international and local levels. One of his significant projects is the UNESCO Better Learning, Better Life short film project titled 'Learning Out of the Board and Beyond,' which resonates with his lifelong commitment to teaching and learning advocacy.

    His current research interests encompass a wide range of fields, including knowledge management, educational management, generative AI application in education, knowledge sharing, organizational communication, mobile learning, language and literacy education, Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge, distance learning, employability, sustainability, gender and development, financial literacy, and teacher education.

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Published

2025-08-30

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Vol. 15 No. 2 (2025): (August 2025)

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