At 63 years old, Ms. Marilyn Dumagsa has weathered countless storms, both literally and figuratively, in her journey through life. Residing in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, Marilyn embodies resilience and determination. Though her formal education only reached the elementary level, her practical knowledge and skills have shaped her into a remarkable woman and a dedicated mother. Born into a family with a rich tradition of craft, Marilyn’s inspiration for her enterprise, Buli hat making, harks back to her roots in Leyte.

Marilyn’s life has not been without its hardships. In 2003, a devastating fire swept through Jasaan, destroying 91 homes, including her own. The aftermath left her family without shelter, and they were forced to live temporarily in local schools provided by the government. During this trying time, her resolve only grew stronger as she faced challenges with unwavering faith.

Married to a humble corn farmer who is now 67, Marilyn has nurtured a family of nine children. She’s proud of having one of her children graduate from college and another currently in senior high school, even though life has been a continuous struggle. As a housewife, Marilyn has often felt the weight of financial strain, particularly as their income from farming is barely sufficient to meet the daily needs of their large family.

To make ends meet, Marilyn and her husband often involve their children in labor, especially during the corn harvest season. Together, they work tirelessly to collect at least 11 sacks of corn, knowing that each harvest holds the promise of survival. After a long day in the fields, they take home one sack for their family, which they can consume for half a week.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Marilyn Dumagsa remains a beacon of hope and fortitude for her family. Through her Buli hat making, she not only preserves a family tradition but also strives to create a better future for her children. Her story is one of resilience as she continues to weave her dreams into reality, one hat at a time.

Her life changed and was reignited when she received a Seed Capital Fund of Php15,000 from the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), enabling her to pursue her craft more seriously and with renewed hope.

Ms. Marilyn Dumagsa’s craft in Buli hat making begins with the harvesting of the raw material from the Buli plant, which grows abundantly in the lush Puntagorda Mountain. The process is labor-intensive yet deeply rewarding. After carefully harvesting the Buli palms, they need to be dried and separate the buli sticks from the palm, ensuring that the material is ready for weaving.

After which, Marilyn undertakes the intricate task of creating what is known as “lilas” or “salapid.” This technique involves tying together four strips of Buli palm, forming a sturdy base that will serve as the foundation for her hats.

Her skill and experience shine through in the variety of hats she produces. Marilyn crafts four distinct sizes, each priced differently to accommodate various budgets: 25, 30, 40, and 50 pesos. On a good day, if the Buli palm is already in the salapid form, she can produce up to a dozen hats.

Ms. Marilyn Dumagsa, a skilled Buli hat maker, generates an income of approximately 8,000 pesos every month from her direct supplier, Bohol Trading in Cagayan De Oro City, and another income generated from the displays/bazaar. She has been able to provide employment opportunities for three (3) people around her, enhancing both her business and her community’s economy. She pays them based on the length of the buli palm, with 12 feet valued at 30 pesos. Her Buli hats are marketed internationally through her supplier, elevating her craft beyond local borders. Marilyn’s story exemplifies resilience and empowerment, showcasing how dedication can lead to positive change and community support.

As Ms. Marilyn gratefully stated, “Dako ako pasalamat sa natabang sa SLP kay nausab ang akong panginabuhian ug kaugalingon. Nana me makuha income para sa amo pagkaon. Tungod sa ako negosyo nakatabang pud kos uban para sa ilang panginahanglanon”.

Each hat tells a story of hard work and determination. Through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), she has empowered herself and others, showcasing the potential of what can be achieved. Weaving her dreams one hat at a time.