The Department of Tourism-Davao (DOT-11) is eyeing soft broom weaving, the primary source of livelihood for the Obu Manuvu tribe in Davao City, as a potential destination for community-based tourism.

In Barangay Tambobong, Baguio District, members of the Obu Manuvu tribe continue to weave soft brooms made from tiger grass known locally as “tahiti.”

The grass is cultivated in sloping areas, harvested once mature, and dried under the sun.

“Mas nindot ang iyang turok pag bakilid kay tambok. Pag sa patag nimo itanom gamay iyang stick,” a resident said.

A member of the tribe who has been weaving for 46 years said it has long been part of their culture and daily livelihood.

She added that the craft helped support her children’s education and sustain their family’s income.

“Dako gyud kaayo ni’g natabang ning silhig kay ang akong mga estudyante karon seven akong anak gikan sa pagsugod sa pagpa eskwela sailaha naa nakoy 3rd year college kini ra gyud among negosyo sa akong bana panginabuhi namo ni,” tribe member, Mary Jean Hilot, said.

TOURISM POTENTIAL

Because of its potential, DOT-11 plans to develop the tribe’s livelihood into a community-based tourism destination.

The initiative aims to allow tourists to witness and experience the weaving process while helping promote and market the tribe’s products in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

DOT-11 director, Tanya Rabat-Tan, said visitors may eventually participate in experiential activities such as weaving their own soft brooms, which they can also take home as souvenirs.

“Isa siya sa pwedeng activity kasi experiential nga ‘yun… magandang activity… diba interesting na you make the walis and you will pay for the walis that you make parang souvenir…. ‘yun, syempre mabibigyan natin ng spotlight kung magiging tourism site na siya… matutulungan sila to promote,” Rabat-Tan said.

Meanwhile, the Davao City Tourism Operations Office said they hope tourists will visit the tribe’s community not only during the Kadayawan Festival but throughout the year.

“Ang atong tribes man gyud, no, gusto nato dili lang every Kadayawan nga sila gina-celebrate. Gusto sila i-celebrate any time of the year. Mao na ang efforts nato kay bisan dili Kadayawan pwede ta mobisita sa ilang community,” City Tourism Operations Head, Willenito Tormis, said.