VM Bebot Rodriguez backs legislative proposal to preserve pottery industry in Bulua

Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez expressed her full support for the legislative measure presented by Councilor Girlie Balaba which aims to preserve and sustain the pottery industry in Barangay Bulua.

During the 99th regular session, Councilor Balaba delivered a special report on the challenges faced by the once-thriving pottery industry, renowned for its global exports in Bulua. The industry, once a source of pride, now grapples with difficulties in marketing and technology, as well as a shortage of skilled artisans.

In her remarks, Vice Mayor Bebot emphasized that the pottery industry should not only be regarded as a tourism attraction but also as a sustainable livelihood opportunity.

To support this vision, the Vice Mayor suggested forming a cooperative of local potters to facilitate access to financial assistance and livelihood programs from various government agencies.

"We can conduct public consultations to understand their challenges,” she stated.

Vice Mayor Bebot also underscored the importance of engaging national agencies, particularly the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in conducting seminars to empower the creative industry and strengthen the livelihoods of Bulua’s pot makers.

"Pot making is one of the domains of the creative industry, and we hope to provide the necessary support to help them," she added.

The special report garnered support from other City Council members and was referred to the committees on Tourism, Cooperatives, and Trade and Commerce for further study.