DTI Region 6, USA empower Ati communities with training

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To bridge cultural heritage and modern commerce, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6, in partnership with the University of San Agustin-Center for Heritage and Indigenous Cultures (USA-CHIC), conducted a three-day Business Development Training at the Ferrymar Hotel in Iloilo City from Feb. 4–6.

The initiative gathered participants from indigenous groups across Western Visayas, including the Pantad Ati Tribe Organization (PATO) of Tobias Fornier, Antique, the Guimaras Ati Weavers Association Corporation of Jordan, Guimaras, and the Karibuhan Ki Mimi Ati Ki Dumarao of Dumarao, Capiz.

The three groups are among the oldest indigenous communities in Panay and Guimaras, where many Ati families continue to sustain ancestral traditions through weaving and other native crafts.

Organizers said the program aims to equip the communities with tools in basic entrepreneurship, marketing, and social media management to help transform traditional crafts into sustainable, profitable enterprises.

The collaboration followed a request for assistance from USA-CHIC last year after the center helped the communities establish formal associations registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

While the tribes already sell products through networks supported by the university, the training introduced formal business concepts intended to professionalize their operations and strengthen market readiness.

“By partnering with USA-CHIC, we are building an entrepreneurial mindset within Ati communities. Our goal is to expand opportunities and empower these communities to take an active role in boosting economic productivity and sustainable profitability within our region. We want to go beyond inclusive entrepreneurship also,” DTI Region 6 OIC-RD Mutya Eusores stated.

DTI Region 6 said entrepreneurial skills are vital for indigenous groups seeking to navigate the digital marketplace while maintaining cultural identity, particularly as online selling becomes central to the growth of micro- and small-enterprises.

USA-CHIC currently assists 18 communities outside Iloilo province, and organizers said a second training batch may be conducted later this year or next, depending on the readiness of other groups, including those within Iloilo province.

A key development for participants is the planned establishment of a dedicated product display area for native crafts at Festive Walk Iloilo, which organizers said will expand access to mainstream buyers and tourists.

Through an arrangement with Megaworld, the physical outlet is expected to be completed within the year, providing what organizers described as a premium platform for the tribes to showcase their work to a wider audience.

The sessions ended Feb. 6 with a discussion on brand equity focused on helping indigenous products and services gain lasting value and recognition in a competitive market.

DTI Region 6 and USA-CHIC said the program is intended to support the Ati people’s transition into self-reliant entrepreneurship while keeping ancestral knowledge and craftsmanship viable in the contemporary economy.