Manila, Sept. 5 -- Traditional woodcarvers in Anito village in Gamay, Northern Samar, have transformed from creators of large wooden masterpieces to makers of small souvenir items for tourists.

Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), said in a phone interview on Friday that capacitating woodcarvers to make souvenir items assures them of more stable income.

"Large carvings often required bigger buyers, specialized transport, and longer selling periods. As a result, many local artisans struggled to sustain a steady income despite their skills," Berbon said.

The association's project now focuses on producing keychains, utensils, souvenir pieces, and other items that are eas...