Blaan Entrepreneur Brings Indigenous Crafts to the Mainstream

 

With the growing cultural awareness in recent years, Marites Salinda-Walker saw an opportunity to strengthen appreciation for the tangible heritage of Indigenous Peoples in the Soccsksargen region.

Marites, a Blaan woman from Barangay Malandag in Malungon, Sarangani Province, founded Salinda Native Products & Pasalubong Center to bring Blaan crafts and other indigenous items into the mainstream.

She began in 2011 with a modest setup, selling within her circle of friends. A trip to the United States later made her realize that once she had started this venture, it was impossible to stop.

Her inspiration came from her two grandmothers, both deeply rooted in Blaan culture. Her maternal grandmother was an embroiderer, particularly of traditional Blaan female blouses, while her paternal grandmother collected Blaan artifacts.

“Before, I didn’t mind these things because they seemed to have no value,” she recalled. “I was late in realizing their importance to our family and the Blaan community.”

With renewed interest, she began collecting Blaan indigenous items such as kamagi (necklace), preserving those with historical value. This passion continued until her return to the Philippines in 2019, when she formally opened her physical store.

“I noticed that there were no souvenir shops in General Santos selling indigenous products. I opened the shop because there was public interest,” she said.

She remembered her paternal grandmother’s words—that one day people would learn to love Blaan crafts and other cultural items. Today, with rising cultural awareness and empowerment, indigenous handicrafts are gaining recognition.

To support Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) in the region, Marites buys directly from artisans at fair prices. She also sources Blaan blouses like Albong Takmon (Mother of pearl/shell discs) and Albong Sanlah (Beaded blouse) made by her mother, which have become among her most saleable items, alongside Tboli Tnalak and Blaan baskets.

Sustainability, however, remains a challenge. Some handicrafts are seasonal, relying on the availability of raw materials. For instance, traditional Blaan baskets can only be produced during certain months. Moreover, most of the artisans are elders who are unable to fast-track or mass-produce their work. To address this, Marites coordinates with the artisans in advance, reserving orders and paying in cash to ensure continuity.

“People now have a greater appreciation for cultural items in Region 12. I sell not only Blaan products but also crafts from other indigenous groups,” she said.

As a social entrepreneur, she channels part of her sales back to IP communities. “When I help, I don’t expect anything in return,” she added.

She also plans to set up a community museum wherein Blaan tangible items can be found. This can benefit both the community and those who are interested in cultural education and preservation.

Despite doubts from others, Marites remains focused on the value these indigenous products bring to the community.

“I dream that the shop will grow bigger and help more communities,” she said.

(This story was first published by PhilStar.com)