Santa Marcela pushes for coconut shell handicrafts; additional income for the locals expected

Santa Marcela, Apayao - Santa Marcela LGU, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry, provided an income generating training to residents interested in coconut shell handicraft making on July 10-11.

The town is known for its cassava plantation, but its coconut plantations recently invited opportunities for processing and other product developments. Thus, the training was in place.

Santa Marcela LGU said that with the vast coconut plantations, many residents can venture into coconut related business, especially that the shell waste can be a profitable source of income.

The LGU said in its posted statement that “The goal of the training was to teach participants how to turn coconut shell waste into useful and beautiful products that they can sell. It was also meant to help them start small businesses and find new ways to earn extra income.’’

Over 15 participants from the members of the Dur-as ti Malekkeg Farmers Association, Santa Marcela Weavers Association, and other interested individuals in the municipality joined the training which mainly focused on the proper process of preparation and production of handicrafts.

These include mainly cleaning, cutting, measuring, and designing coconut shells. Elaine Dalu, and expert in coconut shell handicrafts, facilitated the activity, sharing her experiences and expertise.

After the training, some products produced by the trainees made from coconut shells were keychains, accessories, clocks and home decorations.

The endeavor is just one of Santa Marcela LGU’s several ways of supporting local livelihood and teaching its residents skills on moneymaking through recycling