THE City Government of Tagbilaran, through its City Livelihood and Community Development Office, successfully conducted a Tarsier Souvenir Making Workshop on July 18, 2024 at JJ’s Seafood Village.
The workshop welcomed participants from diverse backgrounds, including members of the Booy Women’s Association, Persons with Disabilities, Out-of-School Youths, and students from Tagbilaran City College and Bohol Island State University.
Attendees were taught how to create stuffed tarsier items, which they can sell in gift shops and tourist areas, including the Pasalubong Center located in Tagbilaran City Friendship Park in Barangay Bool.
The event featured experienced speakers and facilitators: Ms. Basilia Villarmia, Ms. Lea Suarez, and Ms. Jessica Tampos, all staff members of the City Livelihood and Community Development Office.
They received specialized training in tarsier souvenir making from Aproniana Gift Shop, which also provided the materials for the workshop.
In her speech, City Mayor Jane Yap, who was present at the event, expressed her support and enthusiasm for the initiative: “This workshop is a testament to our commitment to empowering our community through skill development and livelihood opportunities. By learning how to create these beautiful tarsier souvenirs, our participants are not only preserving a significant cultural symbol but also creating sustainable income sources for themselves and their families. I commend everyone involved for their dedication and hard work.”
Thanks to this initiative, trained beneficiaries are now regular suppliers of tarsier souvenirs, such as key holders, arm bands, and stuffed toys, at Aproniana Gift Shop.
This workshop not only provided valuable skills but also opened up new livelihood opportunities for the participants, empowering them to contribute to the local economy and promote Bohol’s unique cultural heritage.
Mayor Yap also highlighted that livelihood programs such as this are continually offered by Tagbilaran City to provide additional income for women, out-of-school youths, and students, helping them augment their family income.
