Antequera, Bohol — On September 9, 2025, the Nueva Vizcaya delegation officially began their Trade Techno Mission – Benchmarking Activity in Bohol with a visit to the municipality of Antequera, widely regarded as the basket weaving capital of Bohol. The visit also included a courtesy call to the Honorable Mayor of Antequera, strengthening ties between local government units and visiting institutions.
Basket weaving in Antequera is not only a tradition but also a vital economic backbone of the community. Since the early 1900s, weaving skills have been passed down from older to younger generations, ensuring the continuity of this cultural craft. Today, basket weaving remains the major source of livelihood for many families in the town.
Unlike other industries centralized in production hubs, Antequera’s basket weaving is uniquely home-based. Every household contributes to the industry, with artisans producing finely crafted baskets and woven products from their homes. This system reflects both the flexibility of community-driven industries and the resilience of local craftsmanship.
During the visit, the Nueva Vizcaya delegation learned how traditional knowledge and skills are being preserved while simultaneously contributing to household income. The industry not only sustains families but also enhances Bohol’s cultural identity and tourism appeal.
The courtesy call to the Mayor further highlighted local government support for community-based enterprises. Discussions centered on the importance of safeguarding cultural industries while exploring opportunities for market linkages, cooperative development, and possible academic-government partnerships that could be replicated in Nueva Vizcaya.
This visit underscored the alignment of the benchmarking activity with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). By highlighting Antequera’s century-old weaving tradition, the activity showcased how cultural heritage and sustainable livelihoods can be mutually reinforcing in fostering community resilience and identity.
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