Learning from a master: Lower Lubo artisans to be trained under Sagada’s popular potter

FEATURE

TANUDAN, Kalinga – For the potters of Lower Lubo, Tanudan, the opportunity to learn from one of Sagada's most popular pottery artisans was more than just a skills training. It was a chance to discover new ways of shaping their craft from someone whose pottery demonstrations have captured the attention of thousands online.

Members of the Abagong Tabbucan Mandidiwin Association traveled to Sagada, Mountain Province, on October 28-29, 2026, to learn directly from master potter Siegrid Anne Bangyay, a native of Sagada known for her craftsmanship and viral pottery demonstrations on Facebook.

Bangyay has drawn online attention not only for her articulate English during live demonstrations but also for her ability to transform locally sourced clay into beautifully crafted high-fired stoneware, including mugs, bowls, vases, and traditional jars. She personally gathers and prepares the clay and natural glazes used in her creations.

Having started making stoneware at the age of 21, she has developed her skills and built a following among viewers who watch her demonstrate the intricate process of pottery making.

For the Lower Lubo artisans, learning from Bangyay provided an opportunity to gain fresh knowledge and techniques from an experienced potter while exploring ways to improve their own products.

During the two-day training, the participants learned new pottery techniques, innovative methods, and the use of modern tools and equipment that could help improve production efficiency and product quality.

The initiative was organized by the Municipal Government of Tanudan, in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Provincial Local Government Unit, to further develop the pottery skills of the association's members.

Municipal Administrator Atty. Novielyn Matnao-Baclili said the training was supported by the municipal government under the leadership of Mayor Jaedicke Rhoss Dagadag to help the local artisans improve their craftsmanship and elevate their product designs.

She explained that the potters have traditionally produced their crafts manually, making the introduction of electric equipment and improved production methods an important step toward expanding their capabilities.

Beyond enhancing their craftsmanship, the training also aims to strengthen pottery as one of the sources of livelihood in Lower Lubo.

Mayor Dagadag, meanwhile, assured the association members of the municipal government's continued support for initiatives that will improve their skills and provide better livelihood opportunities.

For the Lower Lubo potters, the lessons they gained from the popular Sagada artisan could translate into better-designed products, more efficient production, and greater opportunities for their traditional craft.

And as they return to working with clay in their own community, they bring with them new techniques and inspiration from a master whose work has reached far beyond the pottery workshops of Sagada.