A three-day Functional Analysis and Competency Standards Development Workshop for Heritage Weaving was conducted from June 28 to 30, 2025, at the TESDA-CAR Multipurpose Hall in Baguio City. Organized by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority – Cordillera Administrative Region (TESDA-CAR), the activity aimed to establish standardized guidelines for the heritage weaving craft, a vital tradition within the region’s textile and cultural heritage sector. Building upon the outcomes of the consultative meeting held on May 15, 2025, the workshop reaffirmed TESDA’s commitment to cultural preservation, skills development, and the creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities for local artisans through the formalization and recognition of traditional competencies.

The objectives of the workshop were to conduct a detailed functional analysis on heritage weaving processes, identify and define key competencies for traditional and contemporary weaving, and engage stakeholders from across the Cordillera provinces in developing a comprehensive competency standard. The workshop also sought to preserve indigenous knowledge passed down through generations, ensure the quality and authenticity of Cordilleran weaving practices, and provide a structured pathway for certification and training programs that can enhance the livelihood potential of local weavers.

Participants included representatives from TESDA’s Regional and Provincial Offices and 15 skilled weavers and textile experts from all six provinces of the Cordillera. Several resource speakers and facilitators with expertise in technical education and indigenous knowledge systems guided the workshop discussions and activities. The composition of facilitators and experts is outlined below:

Resource Speakers/Facilitators

1. Luisita S. Dela Cruz
2. Rodrigo B. Dela Cruz
3. Cecilia Z. Amaro
4. Ma. Lourdes O. Villanueva

Industry Experts

1. Abra (Glenda B. Castillanes, Prima P. Briones, Natividad F. Quiday)
2. Apayao (Marel C. Salcedo, Naia Africano)
3. Benguet (Cathy Ekid, Agnes Duyao)
4. Ifugao (Stephanie S. Ayahao, Lorna Buyuccan, Lily Beyer Luglug)
5. Kalinga (Dina L. Guindalos, Florence Ao-wat)
6. Mountain Province (Ranie D. Dao, Carina C. Damislay, Rose Ann Wangdali

The workshop officially opened with remarks from TESDA-CAR Regional Director Balmyrson M. Valdez, who emphasized the agency’s advocacy for cultural heritage preservation through the formalization of competencies. Susana G. Carbonell, OIC-Chief of the Regional Operations Division, followed with an overview of the activity’s objectives and expected outcomes. Technical sessions commenced with a foundational discussion on functional analysis. Luisita S. Dela Cruz guided participants through a systematic methodology to identify the key purpose, major function, and minor functions of the weaving process, capturing traditional and contemporary practices rooted in the region’s diverse cultures. After consolidating the functional analysis results, Rodrigo B. Dela Cruz introduced the structure and process of competency standards development, setting the foundation for the succeeding days.

The second and third days were fully dedicated to the development of the draft competency standards. The weaving experts from each province narrated the step-by-step processes they follow in their traditional and contemporary weaving practices. These storytelling sessions allowed the facilitators to deeply understand the cultural and technical dimensions of each task. As the weavers described their methods in their own language and context, the facilitators carefully translated these narratives into English, systematically documenting them and transforming them into formal competency elements. This collaborative process ensured that the standard authentically captured the indigenous knowledge systems, while aligning with TESDA’s technical requirements. The result was a set of competencies that not only met national standards but also preserved the depth, diversity, and cultural integrity of Cordilleran weaving traditions.

One of the workshop’s most significant outcomes was the development of a comprehensive draft competency standard titled “Cordillera Traditional and Contemporary Weaving Level II.” The standard’s key purpose is to “Provide quality Cordillera traditional and contemporary woven textile,” capturing both the traditional essence and modern evolution of local weaving practices. The competency framework was organized into one major function, which is “Produce quality Cordillera traditional and contemporary textile,” and six interrelated minor functions:

1. Interpret Cordillera traditional motif and design
2. Perform tie and dye techniques
3. Perform traditional and contemporary weaving
4. Perform basic repair and maintenance of weaving tools and equipment
5. Inspect and evaluate woven product quality
6. Market and promote traditional woven products

This competency framework successfully integrates traditional knowledge and practices from all Cordilleran provinces, ensuring that local cultural expressions are preserved within a unified technical structure.

The workshop concluded with a meaningful closing ceremony. Participants received certificates of participation in recognition of their valuable contributions to the competency standards development process. Regional Director Valdez delivered a message of gratitude, acknowledging the dedication and expertise of all participants. Several weavers shared their impressions and reflections on the workshop experience, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the preservation of their cultural heritage. Likewise, Rodrigo B. Dela Cruz also extended his thanks to the industry experts for their invaluable contributions throughout the three-day activity. The activity represents the initiative in TESDA-CAR’s cultural preservation and economic empowerment efforts. The resulting draft standard honors indigenous traditions while creating clear pathways for recognition, training, and enterprise. This initiative demonstrates TESDA’s innovative approach to preserving indigenous knowledge systems through formal education and training frameworks, ensuring that the rich weaving traditions of the Cordillera region will be preserved, transmitted, and celebrated for future generations while providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for current practitioners.

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