The Department of Tourism (DOT) – Region 12 recently awarded the Lamlifew Village Museum and Blaan School of Living Traditions in Sarangani Province the Best in Tourism Product: Heritage Conservation at the first SOX Awards.

SOX refers to SOCKSARGEN – a collective branding of the provinces in Region 12 namely: South Cotabato, Cotabato City, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City. DOT launched the SOX Awards not only to boost the tourism industry of the region but also to celebrate the rich culture, tradition and heritage of these provinces.

The Lamlifew Tribal Women’s Association, the people’s organization who takes care of the Lamlifew Museum, is one of the communities of Bantay Kalikasan, the environment arm of the the ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc. Dubbed as the ‘dream weavers’, the Blaan women weave tabih – a traditional ikat – dyed fabric. This native fabric and the amazing weaving skills of Blaan women make their creations truly marvellous. Most of their designs are based on their dreams.

Through the financial support granted by Senator Manny Pacquiao, Bantay Kalikasan and the local government of Sarangani under the leadership of Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon and his wife Michelle Solon put up a multi-purpose center, a weaving center, weaving implements and a cafeteria for a complete tourism experience of the place. The local government of Sarangani has launched the Sulong Sarangani program in partnership with Bantay Kalikasan to showcase the unique culture and extraordinary skills of the tribe.

Situated at the Muncipality of Malungon in Sarangani Province, Lamlifew is one of the many communities of Bantay Kalikasan nationwide. Bantay Kalikasan endeavours to create model communities that live harmoniously with nature through environmentally-sustainable livelihood programs. 

Atty. Maria Theresa Constantino, Mayor of the Municipality of Malungon (5^th from the left), together with the municipal councillors and Bantay Kalikasan Site Coordinator Toto Tirando (2^nd from the left), officially turns over the Best in Tourism Product Award to Blaan weavers (3^rd & 4^th from the left).