MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — The Bukidnon Creatives Guild urged the government and private sectors to support indigenous arts as a source of livelihood, cultural preservation, and sustainable growth

Guild President and international artist Waway Saway said Indigenous crafts such as weaving, basketry, embroidery, and traditional musical instruments reflect tribal roots and can develop into creative industries with proper support.

“Creative industries of Indigenous peoples are tied to their culture. We need to document these skills and coordinate aid from agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI),” Saway said during the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Bukidnon Interaction program, Oct. 19.

He linked indigenous creativity to agriculture and tourism, citing examples such as packaging coffee products in bamboo boxes with tribal designs or reviving traditional instruments for performances and trade.

“If these traditions have economic value, young people will continue them,” he said.

Saway urged local governments to establish Creative Industry Councils in every municipality to help manage and promote indigenous products. He drafted proposed ordinances and shared them with local legislators to channel DTI assistance and ensure the sustainability of Indigenous industries.

He also envisioned Bukidnon as a center for soil painting and other Indigenous art forms, similar to how Aboriginal art in Australia gained international recognition.

“Promoting tribal designs through exhibitions and films could preserve heritage while creating new livelihood opportunities,” he said.

Saway said sustainability depends on protecting natural resources such as bamboo and rattan, which are key materials for weaving and crafts. He urged communities, businesses, and government agencies to provide artisans with tools, training, and market access.

“With proper support, Indigenous communities can transform their culture into an asset for economic growth, environmental protection, and cultural pride. This will not only sustain their traditions but also drive Bukidnon’s overall development,” Saway said. (Michael B. Daming, GIP/PIA-10/Bukidnon)