Preservation Efforts and Sustainability of Banig Weavers in Libertad, Antique

Abstract

This study determined the level of preservation efforts and sustainability of banig weavers in Libertad, Antique, and examined the relationship between the two variables. A survey-correlational research design was employed. From 625 identified banig weavers in the municipality, 125 active weavers were selected purposively based on residence in Libertad, Antique and at least five years of weaving experience. Data were gathered using two researcher-developed 30-item questionnaires on preservation efforts and sustainability. The instruments were pilot-tested, producing Cronbach's alpha coefficients of .939 and .747, respectively. Mean and standard deviation were used to describe the two principal variables, while Pearson product-moment correlation was used to test their relationship at the .05 level of significance. Results showed a high level of preservation efforts (M = 4.00, SD = 0.75) and a high level of sustainability (M = 3.99, SD = 0.67). Preservation efforts were positively and significantly related to sustainability (r = .749, p < .001), leading to rejection of the null hypothesis. The findings indicate that the continued practice and transmission of weaving skills, community participation, institutional support, and livelihood-oriented preservation initiatives are closely associated with the continuity of banig weaving. Strengthening youth participation, skills training, market access, cultural promotion, and livelihood support may help sustain the craft and its role in the cultural identity and local economy of Libertad.