In 2013, the community tiger grass farm, locally known as Luway, took root in the hilly landscape of Odiongan in Sitio Silangan, Barangay Pato-o.
Fast forward to 2020, amid the challenges posed by COVID-19 worldwide, the residents of Pato-o realized the need for an alternative source of income.
Selling their tiger grass became challenging during the pandemic as there were limited buyers. Their solution? Transform the tiger grass into brooms themselves.
Seeking government assistance, they aimed to evolve from mere tiger grass sellers to skilled broom makers.
Responding to the community's request, Negosyo Center Odiongan, in collaboration with Barangay Pato-o leaders and Odiongan town officials, conducted skills training on tiger grass broom making in 2020. The following year, a skills upgrading training further enhanced their broom-making abilities.
In 2022, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provided the community with livelihood opportunities, including broom handle plastic labeling, enhancing their product's marketability. The Local Government of Odiongan supplied additional manufacturing materials.
The group sought assistance in formally establishing an association, receiving support from the Negosyo Center. They were referred to the Odiongan Community Organizing Office to register with the Department of Labor and Employment. Officially named the Layuning Umunlad na Walang Alinlangang Yumaman Association (LUWAY), they gained accreditation from the Sangguniang Bayan of Odiongan.
Since 2023, the Local Government of Odiongan and DTI Negosyo Center have sustained their support for LUWAY. A dedicated cluster house was constructed, serving as a manufacturing and storage facility, as well as a collaborative space for association members.
The Negosyo Center played a role in the association's success, offering not only capacitation training but also marketing assistance to connect them with target customers.
This initiative aims to make the tiger grass industry more sustainable, enhancing the lives of Pato-o residents by transforming adversity into success.
The Layuning Umunlad na Walang Alinlangang Yumaman Association stands as a testament to the transformative power of community collaboration and unwavering determination to achieve dreams.
