Participants of TPB’s Community-Based Tourism (CBT) initiative in Zamboanga and Basilan
The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) conducted its first Community-Based Tourism (CBT) initiative for 2025 in Zamboanga and Basilan from 14-18 January 2025. As part of its commitment to Gender and Development (GAD), TPB strengthened its gender-responsive initiatives by supporting and empowering local communities, particularly women’s associations engaged in tourism-related livelihoods. These efforts contribute to sustainable community enterprises, the promotion of local crafts, and the economic empowerment of women and marginalized groups.
Supporting Gender-Inclusive Livelihoods: The Hope Paddlers of Sta. Cruz Island
Women Paddlers of Sta. Cruz Island
In Zamboanga, TPB visited Great Sta. Cruz Island, where it met the Hope Paddlers, an association composed of both men and women who operate boat tours for visitors. Beyond fishing and souvenir making, paddling has become an essential source of income for the community, and female paddlers play a significant role in the tourism sector.
Turnover of TPB’s pledge of commitment to donate three yellow boats to the Hope Paddlers of Sta. Cruz Island
To further support this gender-inclusive livelihood, TPB donated three additional yellow boats to the Hope Paddlers. This initiative enhances the economic opportunities available to both women and men, ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry on the island. Since TPB’s initial donation of yellow boats in 2021, many families have benefited, and the additional boats will help meet the growing demand for tourism services, thereby supporting the economic stability of both male and female paddlers.
Strengthening Women’s Economic Participation: The Tennun Weavers Association of Kapatagan Grande (TWAK-G)
Tennun Weavers Association of Kapatagan Grande’s (TWAK-G) handwoven textiles and traditional delicacies
The TPB also visited the Tennun Weavers Association of Kapatagan Grande (TWAK-G), a collective of Sama Banguingui and Yakan women artisans. These women preserve the centuries-old art of Tennun weaving, producing intricate handwoven textiles that reflect their indigenous heritage. Alongside weaving, members contribute to local tourism by preparing traditional delicacies for visitors.
To support their craftsmanship and increase production capacity, TPB provided Php 50,000.00 worth of weaving threads. This investment not only ensures the financial stability of the association but also promotes sustainable tourism practices that celebrate and elevate indigenous traditions.
Empowering Women’s Organizations in Basilan
The TPB also visited three distinguished women-led organizations in Basilan, each with a unique vision for empowering their communities through livelihood and cultural preservation.
Marang-Marang Women’s Organization
Members of the Marang-Marang Women’s Organization and their traditional cuisine
The first organization TPB visited was the Marang-Marang Women’s Organization, composed of 98 registered female members. Known for their fresh Samal and Tausug seafood delicacies sourced from their own bakawan (mangrove farm), the association actively contributes to the promotion of community-based tourism while elevating Bajau female representation in the local economy.
Turnover of TPB’s pledge of commitment to donate Php 25,000 worth of chemical dyes to the Marang-Marang Women’s Organization.
According to its president, Community-Based Tourism (CBT) initiatives have provided the group with workshops and training that have strengthened their livelihoods. These programs have also boosted the confidence and morale of female members, allowing them to engage in community planning and decision-making, particularly in Gender and Development (GAD) projects spearheaded by their local government unit (LGU).
To support their craft, TPB pledged Php 25,000.00 worth of chemical dyes to be used in mat weaving. This contribution aims to enhance their production capacity, increase profits, and further promote the pride of Basilan’s local artisans on a national scale.
Lampinigan Women’s Association
TPB also visited the Lampinigan Women’s Association, a newly established group comprising 30 members from the Sama Banguingui tribe. Similar to the Marang-Marang Women’s Organization, they are known for preparing seafood delicacies for island visitors and tourists.
The LGU has played an active role in supporting their initiatives by providing livelihood training in food preparation, weaving, and souvenir-making. Additionally, in 2023, the association participated in a GAD-related training focused on budgeting, planning, and business strategies, equipping its members with essential skills for sustainable growth.
Bajau Women’s Weavers Association of Tampalan (BAWWAT)
Members of the Bajau Women’s Weavers Association of Tampalan (BAWWAT) showcasing their tepo mats
The Bajau Women’s Weavers Association of Tampalan (BAWWAT) is one of the largest groups of female weavers in Barangay Tampalan, Isabela City. While fishing remains the primary livelihood of the community, the women have developed a thriving business in weaving high-quality, double-layered tepo mats, renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.
According to a City Councilor and leader of the association, BAWWAT’s advocacy centers on preserving the traditional art of mat weaving, a cultural practice at risk of fading. They also strive to gain wider recognition for their skills and to challenge the negative stereotypes associated with their community.
Turnover of TPB’s pledge of commitment to donate Php 25,000.00 worth of chemical dyes to the Bajau Women’s Weavers Association of Tampalan (BAWWAT)
In support of these efforts, TPB donated Php 25,000.00 worth of chemical dyes to aid in the production of their tepo mats. This assistance is expected to help the association expand its capital, sustain production, and strengthen its market presence.
Through these ongoing initiatives, TPB continues to champion gender equality in tourism, fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development in local communities. By empowering women-led organizations and preserving cultural heritage, TPB reinforces its commitment to gender-responsive and inclusive tourism development in the Philippines.
