A women’s organization in the coastal village of Cataban in this city has found a way to grow its members’ income with handicrafts made from water lilies.

Cathy Baided, 48, president of the Cataban Weavers Association told Philippine News Agency (PNA) in an interview Wednesday that weaving water lilies has already become their way of life since they found out that these plants can be a good source of livelihood.

Baided was among the participants at a trade fair at the Laoag City Multi-Purpose Center which the city government organized to promote new and quality products for small, micro, and medium entrepreneurs. She sold water lily-based novelty items such as baskets, bags, trays, hats, tissue- and wine-holders, and hampers.

While some locals consider them an eyesore and nuisance that clogs waterways, these floating plants have become a source of livelihood and inspiration for the Cataban women to organize themselves into a formal organization.

“The process of making a refined product is hard but once you see the output being appreciated by many is enough reward,” said Baided, adding that she and her team enjoy doing their craft in the comfort of their homes.

“We are most thankful for the Villar Foundation for providing us the necessary skills training and all other government agencies that helped us along the way to improve our craft,” she added.

Now, the Cataban weavers have been supplying novelty items locally and abroad for as low as PHP50 each, depending on the size and craftsmanship involved.

Some of their products can also be found at the Laoag Pasalubong Center in Aurora Park. The association can be reached by phone at 0945-1599011 for custom-made products.

Aside from providing livelihood to the locals, the water lily business has also cleaned up the city’s waterways. (PNA)