EIGHTEEN water hyacinth weavers from Bacarra, Ilocos Norte underwent an enhancement training conducted by the Extension Directorate in cooperation with UCGAD, LGU Bacarra, MMSU-Enactus, and the Department of Trade and Industry.

The training aimed to further enhance the skills of the weavers specifically on dyeing, finishing techniques, and lining and accessorizing small items such as coin purse, clutch bag, and tissue holders.

The use of water hyacinth has become beneficial to the weavers’ economic activities as their products are now sold here and abroad. It can be recalled that the MMSU Extension Directorate started in 2011 the program “Agro-entrepreneurial ventures for men and women” in agricultural villages in the said town. For over two years now, the group has been producing handicrafts made from the plant.

Before, water hyacinths brought problems in the Cabulalaan-Corocor creek as these blocked its water flow.