The medals set to adorn the podium winners at the 66th Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur will feature handcrafted ribbons made by AgSurnon IP (Indigenous People) women from the municipality of Loreto. 

Loreto, a Manobo municipality in AgSur, boasts a livelihood initiative called the Hinang Project that aims to develop the artisanal skills of indigenous women while providing a productive means of living. ‘Hinang’ is a local Manobo term that means ‘to make,’ reflecting the handmade creativity that the project hones. 

The handcrafted beadwork by talented AgSurnon IP women from this Loreto initiative will serve as the ribbons to hold the medallions hanging from the necks of student-athletes who will excel at the national games. 

This was confirmed by the organizers through an official social media post, expressing gratitude to and crediting Loreto’s project under the Culture and Arts Development Division of Municipal Tourism Office.

According to a 2023 feature episode of travel docu-show ‘Biyahe ni Drew,’ the 'Hinang Project' teaches IP women fundamental beadwork skills that they can use to embellish a variety of handcrafted products, like bags, ornaments, and decorative accessories. 

“Our deepest gratitude to the Hinang Project of SHINE Loreto BIBO Loreto for creating not just beadwork, but stories of patience, passion, and purpose into every piece. Your unwavering dedication to the mass production of these intricate creations that started since last year goes beyond craftsmanship. It becomes a powerful act of support for unlocking the future of our learner-athletes,” wrote the Palarong Pambansa organizers on Facebook.