Caloocan Furniture Makers Strive to Sustain Traditional Craft

MANILA, Philippines – Furniture makers in Maypajo, Caloocan City, a district with a long-standing tradition in craftsmanship, are striving to sustain their livelihood amidst declining sales and the evolving market landscape. Known for its furniture industry even before officially becoming a city in 1962, Caloocan, particularly along A. Mabini Street in Maypajo, hosts numerous furniture shops displaying wares made of wood, metal, and polyester. Manong Jun, a 58-year-old furniture reseller with decades of experience, observes a decline in sales but notes that customers return due to the trusted quality of locally made furniture. While Cebu, specifically Mandaue City, is recognized as the furniture capital of the Philippines, Caloocan's industry has endured for decades. However, Manong Jun, who inherited his business from his mother, believes it may end with him, as he wishes for his children to pursue more stable employment. Traditionally, furniture sales in the area pick up during the 'ber' months (September onwards) after a slow period from February to August. However, the COVID-19 pandemic, which restricted movement, and the rise of online shopping have significantly impacted the local industry, according to Barangay 21 Secretary Ferdinand Dado. "Sales used to be strong, especially from September. When the pandemic hit, people couldn't go out. Shops closed one by one; no one was buying. Online businesses are another reason," Dado stated. Despite these challenges, the shops persist, underscoring their cultural and economic significance to the city. The alleys behind the shops are filled with the sounds of carpentry, sawdust, and the smell of varnish. Edward Marukot, a 42-year-old carpenter and seller, has dedicated most of his life to this craft. His furniture now reaches not only Metro Manila but also distant islands like Mindoro, Cebu, Bohol, Zamboanga, and Tawi-Tawi. Marukot has adapted by selling through online platforms and plans to leverage TikTok to expand his reach. When asked about encouraging his children to follow suit, he expressed caution: "It depends on the situation now. Life is difficult, and we don't know the future. I don't force them, but I teach them the business somehow." Marukot is proud of the 'Tatak Caloocan' (Proudly Made in Caloocan) 'King Louis' sala set and advocates for better promotion of the city's furniture industry. Meanwhile, Dante Acain, who has worked in the industry for 30 years, earns around P700 daily, which he deems sufficient for his family's needs. He has never seen government support for the industry and hopes for 'ayuda' (aid) for workers. Acain, like many others, would prefer his children pursue jobs that are "good, not dusty," reflecting the physically demanding nature of furniture making. The industry previously received support from the defunct National Cottage Industries Development Authority (NACIDA). The question remains: what can be done to prevent this traditional craft from fading away? Information Source: Rappler Philippines