HINOBA-AN, Negros Occidental — Hope Builders Organization Negros Island Inc. joined the community visit conducted by the Association of Negros Producers Inc. and the Local Government Unit of Hinoba-an on May 7, 2026, in Sitio Maatop, Barangay Singka, highlighting the growing Ban-ban craft production initiative in the community.

The visit showcased the handcrafted Ban-ban basket products made by two fathers from the sitio who continue to preserve the traditional weaving practices passed down through generations. Using Ban-ban plants abundantly found within the community, the residents are slowly transforming a once ordinary household material into a potential source of sustainable income.

Sitio Maatop began its Ban-ban craft production in 2022 through the BALIK-SALIG Program of the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental. The initiative aimed to provide livelihood opportunities while promoting local craftsmanship and community-based enterprise.

Before the introduction of the livelihood initiative, Ban-ban baskets were commonly used only for food storage and personal household needs. Today, the products are gradually gaining recognition as marketable handcrafted items that may contribute to the economic development of the community.

Despite the abundant availability of raw materials, only a few community members are actively involved in the Ban-ban craft production. Many residents continue to prioritize other immediate sources of livelihood and daily survival needs, limiting the expansion of the weaving initiative.

Sitio Maatop is home to more than 130 households with over 300 residents. Known as the first sitio established in Hinoba-an, the community now faces the challenge of limited livelihood opportunities and development interventions compared to other areas.

The community visit served as an opportunity to assess possible partnerships and support mechanisms that can help strengthen the Ban-ban weaving industry, improve product development, and connect the community to wider markets.

Hope Builders Organization Negros Island Inc. expressed its support for grassroots livelihood initiatives that preserve local culture while empowering communities toward sustainable development. The organization emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, partner institutions, and local communities in creating long-term opportunities for marginalized sitios like Maatop.