Weaving her way back

While some discover their skills later in life, others begin honing theirs from an early age. For Eleodora Carreos, at six years old, her tiny hands knew the rhythm of weaving. Although she pursued a career in teaching, life eventually led her back to the craft that has always been part of her.

Before weaving became her story

Eleodora, now 63, from Calamba City, was born and raised in Luisiana, Laguna, where she learned the art of weaving. After graduating, she initially worked as a teacher in Victoria, Laguna, before transferring to a private school in Calamba in 1991.

In 1993, her teaching career was interrupted after she was diagnosed with laryngitis. This throat condition causes hoarseness or loss of voice and, if left untreated or worsened by continued teaching, could lead to cancer. As a result, she became a librarian.

Finding her way back to weaving

For nearly two decades, she dedicated herself to her role as a librarian. In 2020, however, the pandemic prompted the school to implement cost-cutting measures, and she was among those who were laid off. Fortunately, she had established a sari-sari store back in 2005, which became their primary source of income.

Instead of dwelling on the setback, she saw it as an opportunity. Drawing on the weaving skills she learned as a child, she turned it into a livelihood by creating woven baskets and bags.

Initially, Eleodora used old cartons as raw material, but these proved less durable. She later shifted to pandan leaves and eventually incorporated plastic strips, resulting in sturdier, more durable products.

Her business began to flourish after a friend fell in love with one of her handmade products. Through word of mouth, her customer base slowly expanded. Her dedication to the craft earned her recognition as the Most Outstanding Trainee in a weaving workshop she attended.

From her experience, Eleodora shares her advice for those dreaming of starting their business: “Kailangan ikaw mismo alam mo kung paano gawin yung trabaho, magpokus ka kung saan ka magaling at saka ka lamang kumuha ng tauhan kapag kaya na ng iyong negosyo. (Focus on your strengths, do it yourself, and hire help only when your business is ready).”

Securing her finances

To secure additional capital, she took loans from CARD SME Bank, Inc. (A Thrift Bank) under CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI). Since 2009, the bank has been her trusted partner, supporting both her sari-sari store and weaving products. Some of the bank’s staff even became loyal customers of her handmade products. Eleodora also opened a MyWealth Savings account at CARD SME Bank, a savings product designed for senior citizens, allowing her to manage and grow her hard-earned income effectively.

Through her hard work, she helped her two siblings complete their education and supported three of her nieces and nephews in finishing school. Though they do not have children of their own, she remains deeply grateful for all that life has given her and generously shares her blessings with others.

All the twists and turns in her life came full circle, guiding her back to weaving and turning her childhood passion into a meaningful livelihood. What once began as a simple craft has become one of her sources of income.

For orders and inquiries, those within the area may visit her at Acacia Park Homes, Saimsim, Calamba City, Laguna, or contact her at 0907-206-0570.