DOrSU Partners with Bantay Integrated School to Teach Mandaya Embroidery and Beadwork to Pupils
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) partnered with Bantay Integrated School (BIS) in Caraga, Davao Oriental, to teach Mandaya embroidery and beadwork to learners while helping preserve traditional craftsmanship and promote sustainable livelihood opportunities in the community.
The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on November 4, 2026, at Sitio Dangilas, Barangay P.M. Sobrecarey, Caraga, Davao Oriental, between DOrSU and the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Davao Oriental through Bantay Integrated School. The agreement covers the implementation of a community-based project titled “Paglaugtabing: Regenerative Creative Works for the Preservation and Promotion of Mandaya Tangible Arts and Crafts.”
Under the agreement, DOrSU will provide embroidery and beadwork materials, tools, and supplies for at least 50 Mandaya learners. The University will also extend technical assistance, capacity-building activities, mentoring, and training to strengthen the learners’ skills in traditional craftsmanship.
The project will integrate Mandaya embroidery and beadwork into the school’s Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) and Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) subjects. Bantay Integrated School will allocate one hour per week for these activities, covering learners from Grades 4 to 10.
The initiative also seeks to document and preserve Mandaya designs, embroidery techniques, cultural knowledge, and community narratives. It aims to help learners develop entrepreneurial skills and promote culturally authentic products.
DOrSU will implement the project through its Center for Arts, Tradition, and Cultural Heritage (CATCH). The University will provide technical assistance in product development, quality improvement, promotion, and marketing. It will also assist the school in identifying opportunities for resource mobilization.
Meanwhile, Bantay Integrated School will coordinate the project implementation, facilitate the participation of learners and teachers, and work with DOrSU in monitoring and evaluating its activities.
The MOA was signed by DOrSU President Dr. Roy G. Ponce and Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Josephine L. Fadul. The signing was witnessed by Bantay Integrated School Teacher-in-Charge Angelita M. Diano, Tribal Chieftain Agosto P. Diano, Punong Barangay Federico B. Miedes, and Caraga Municipal Vice Mayor Rican T. Calig-Onan. Also present during the activity was DOrSU Director for Extension Dr. Lanie B. Laureano.
