Anecita began weaving at a young age, a skill that has been passed down by families in Negros Occidental for generations. She started off as a weaver of banig (straw mats) and was eventually taught by the Department of Trade and Industry how to weave bags.

But weaving bags is not as easy at it seemed. “Sometimes, our hands get hurt when we prepare the pandan leaves, especially when they have thorns. It’s also hard to dry the leaves when it’s been raining, as it ruins our product,” Anecita shared.

For the 48-year-old woman weaver, the partnership and support of the Community Crafts Association of the Philippines, Inc. (CCAP) and PLDT have helped their organization, General Luna Kapit-Bisig Association (GENLUKBA) and the women in their community to find livelihood.

“When our husbands do not have jobs, weaving has helped us -- the women in the community -- to augment our income. We were trained and helped by CCAP and PLDT to look for clients and they treat us like family,” Anecita, who chairs GENLUKBA, said. 

This partnership also helped the organization conduct exhibits in Metro Manila to expand their customer base.

“This has helped improve our lives, especially for me since this is my only source of income. I was able to send my children to school. I am grateful to PLDT that they chose to help GENLUKBA. PLDT gave us the opportunity to expand, and we hope that this partnership will continue for a long time,” she added.