To promote cultural preservation and economic empowerment for the indigenous people, the College of Teacher Education, constructed the extension project “AKBAY (Alalay sa mga Katutubong Badjau tungo sa pag-Ahon at pagYabong)” in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP), Lucena City Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Rotary Club and Lucban.
The key activities for this project include the PaSaBay (Pag-angat Sa Buhay) which aims to capacitate the Sama-Badjaus tribe housed at Brgy. Barra, Lucena City, which most adults lack formal education.
During the initial session on November 10, 2023, the team visited the Sama-Bajau tribe in Brgy, Ibarra, Lucena City. Facilitators provided hands-on training in basket weaving, with participants eagerly taking part in the activity. Mr. John Paulo R. Alvarez, Mr. Michael Anthony G. Rada, and Ms. Mary Grace A. Delas Alas guided the participants through the intricacies of the craft, fostering a collaborative and interactive learning environment.
The commitment to the tribe’s development was further demonstrated as the team returned on December 6, 2023, to monitor the progress of the participants. Additional techniques and tips were shared to help improve the quality of their woven products, enhancing their marketability. The newfound knowledge not only provides them with a source of livelihood but also contributes to the preservation of their cultural heritage.