By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the warm sun of Baliwag City, Bulacan, local artisans gathered to talk about a craft that has defined their community for generations — buntal weaving. Known for its iconic buntal hats, the city’s traditional craft is now getting a boost through collaboration with the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA).
On March [insert date], PhilFIDA Executive Director Arnold “Ali” I. Atienza met with local stakeholders to discuss initiatives aimed at promoting and strengthening the buntal fiber industry. ED Atienza highlighted the agency’s role in supporting natural fiber production, improving value-added opportunities, and sustaining livelihoods tied to traditional crafts.
“PhilFIDA is committed to helping communities enhance their fiber production while ensuring that local artisans benefit from new economic opportunities,” Atienza said during the meeting.
Representing Baliwag City Mayor Sonia P. Estrella, Brent Garcia shared the history of buntal hat-making in the city. He explained how simple weaving techniques evolved over decades into a thriving local industry, with families passing down skills from one generation to the next.
The meeting also showcased initiatives targeting the younger generation. Entrepreneur Rosario Q. Bautista introduced “Buntalan sa Paaralan,” a program designed to teach students the art of buntal weaving. She also proposed a “Buntalan sa Paaralan Fun Run” to raise awareness and support for the craft. These programs aim to preserve cultural heritage while encouraging new enthusiasts to engage with the traditional fiber industry.
Buntal fiber, derived from the stalks of the buri palm, has long been valued for its flexibility, strength, and use in high-quality hats, bags, and home décor items. The industry not only supports artisans’ livelihoods but also promotes local tourism and cultural identity in Baliwag and other fiber-producing regions.
PhilFIDA emphasized that continued cooperation among local government units, artisans, and industry stakeholders is key to sustaining and expanding the buntal industry. By combining traditional skills with modern support and market strategies, the agency hopes to strengthen natural fiber industries across the Philippines.
Through programs like these, PhilFIDA seeks to ensure that traditional crafts like buntal weaving remain economically viable, culturally relevant, and passed on to future generations. The meeting in Baliwag reflects a larger effort to preserve Filipino craftsmanship while providing practical benefits to local communities.
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