Laguna is a province in the Philippines located in the CALABARZON region. The province is known for its hot springs, lagoon, and lakes. It is also a popular tourist destination because of its close proximity to Manila. Consisting of 24 towns and 6 cities in total, the options of where to go and what to do could be endless.
And just recently, along with bloggers and other media guests, the Tourism Culture and Arts Development Office of the local government of Laguna, invited us over to experience a two-day tour in this beautiful province.
I will give you more information about what I discovered about that very soon on the Vlog. So do not miss any episodes and subscribe to my channel. Also read: #LoveLaguna: Revitalizing Laguna’s Tourism
Aside from the awesome lineup of Tourist destinations, a side trip to source out possible products and/or simply shopping for different proudly Laguna-made products would be equally exciting. Remember, these products are not only popular in the Philippines but also internationally. Here is a closer look at 4 Amazing Products Laguna is known for.
Whittling or Woodshaving Products of Pakil, Laguna
Locally known as Pahiyas Tambag, where Pahiyas means decoration and Tambag means an ethnic and traditional nuptial banquet, the art of Woodshaving or Wood Whitling can be considered one of the many dying arts in the Philippines. It has a Spanish influence that dates back to the 18th century with only a few people nowadays on this side of Pakil, Laguna.
Wood Whittling is a lighter but more delicate version of woodcarving where folk artists use a homemade knife to easily carve the soft and fine wood locally named Cayetana, Matang-Araw, and Malasangki wood. These woods are locally sourced and endemic here in Pakil, Laguna.
This delicate art requires a steady pulse, eye-for-designing, and perseverance to execute this unique technique.
On our visit here in Pakil, we were introduced to this family who is mainly responsible for keeping the art alive. Pakil Handicraft is owned by Mr. Ramon Pasang and his Wife – Dominga Berin and is located in the small town of Pakil in Laguna.
Some of the designs they are currently doing include flowers, angels, peacocks, fans and birds, etc. The decorative pieces are mainly used as table decors, wall decor, toothpicks, pickles-pick, wine beaters, etc.
From what I’ve learned a simple design cost Php 20.00 (USD 0.36) and can go up depending on the size of the art. Hopefully, the local government could find a way to make this art sustainable and more useful so it can maintain its existence in the trade. It’s a good thing that the family is really keen on preserving this art, and is in the process of training the new breeds in the family.
For more information about Pakil Handicraft, you can visit them at 28-Gonzales Street, Pakil, Laguna, Philippines 3711. You can also reach the local tourism of Pakil at pakil.tourism@gmail.com and 0955-731-3444.
Wooden Bags and Wood and Metal Sculpture of Paete, Laguna
From the Town of Pakil, we moved on to the next town called Paete.
Paete, the Carving Capital of The Philippines (Presidential Proclamation 2005) has been home to talented wood carvers for generations. From before Spanish colonial times until today there is a rich history in this town that specializes in art craft making through their many handmade items made out of traditional materials.
One famous son who traces his roots back to Paetenos’ finest sculptor Fred Baldemor (another one being Luisito Ac-Ac) and painter Manuel Balderas both had careers focused largely on bringing attention forward through visual arts.
On our visit to Paete, we were first introduced to Glenn Cagandahan Sculptures. You have probably seen one of his creations if you’ve been in malls and is for a lookout for new arts. A homegrown Paeteno, Glenn grew up and was exposed to the art of wood carving. He took up Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines and then eventually honed to create arts out of the box.
Being adaptable to changes and with the increasing value of commodities, Glenn is now introducing a new medium in sculpting using Epoxy glue as the base of most of his sculptures. Aside from that, he made sure that some of his designs are not just decorative pieces but also useful in a way to make the value more appealing e.g. lamp.
Having won different art competitions and created a name in this industry, Glenn’s art pieces are priced at around Php 200,000 and above.
For more information, you can reach Glenn Cagandahan at 0975 390 1066 or glenncagandahan@yahoo.com.
Moving on to our next destination, we visited Rosiyo Wooden Bags. These art pieces turned into a handbag are a hit in the international market reaching Europe and the US.
Made from acacia wood, the carved designs are painted using automotive paint to give that shiny look. For entrepreneurs outsourcing products like this, Rosiyo Wooden Handbags have made sure to be adaptable to the market needs by ensuring clients that they are open to customization and brand rename.
Handbags wholesale cost around Php 4,500 (USD 80.99) per piece.
For information, you can contact Paete Tourism Office at 0955-4337434 or pcarvingcapitalphilippines@yahoo.com.
The Embroidery Captial of the Philippines – Lumban
Moving on to the next town we reach Lumban, Laguna.
Known as the Embroidery Capital of the Philippines, Lumban is a treasure trove for embroiderers and weavers. From traditional Barong Tagalogs, Saya & Kimonos to more sophisticated fully-calladoed gowns – there’s something here that will suit anyone!
The intricacy in which each piece has been embroidered showcases not only passion but also artistry born from generations worth of knowledge passed down through time immemorial.
The minute details put into these designs really speak volumes about what this place means: Lumbeño pride. Thus, every third of September, Lumbeño annually celebrates the so-called “Burdang Lumban Festival” showcasing the best of the town’s embroidered crafts and other highlights that include a trade fair, street dancing competition, and nightly entertainment shows throughout the duration of the festival.
During our visit, I learned that a piece usually takes 3-weeks to finish, and ensures the embroiderer a chance to earn from Php 1,500 and up depending on the embroidered-piece intricacy.
For more information, you can reach the Lumban Municipal Tourism office at lumban_tourism@yahoo.com.
Water Hyacinth Products of Pila, Laguna
Known mainly for its number of Ancestral houses and Historical structures, Pila, Laguna’s hidden gem can also be seen in its craftmanship, mainly through the production of Water Hyacinth products – specifically RolyoLikha and Sarilikha.
Water hyacinth is a plant that grows in lakes and rivers across the world. With high rates of regeneration, survival, and growth it’s generally difficult to clear an infested area with this weed. but luckily, the people of Pila have managed to make something harmful into something useful, by using water hyacinth fiber to create various products such as coasters, slippers, baskets, hats, fruit trays, furniture, handbag, and women’s purse. Tough yet flexible is known to be the key property of water hyacinth stem, which is the main material used to produce water hyacinth fiber.
In Rolyolikha, one can basically source products for reselling. They got a wide range of products that can be requested for re-branding. I also learned that the company accepts customized designs for its clients.
Overall, Laguna is definitely a place worth visiting for tourism most especially for entrepreneurs who are looking to source new and amazing products. From the notable tourist spots, one would definitely enjoy a side trip shopping for wooden handbags to intricate embroideries, there’s definitely something here for everyone. Be sure to check out these amazing places next time you’re in Laguna!
1 Comment