A DESIGNER from Davao del Norte is highlighting banana fiber in her creations – from clothes and bags to face masks.
Joy Soo, the woman behind the brand Musa Fabric, has given the rich banana industry of the province another pride to fulfill her commitment of making the industry’s popularity beyond its agricultural worth.
Fresh from her trip in the Holy Land last December, the Tagum City-based designer thought of working on an advocacy that could at least alleviate the economic status of several people. This was when the idea of creating products made from banana fiber popped up.
“As a result of my soul-searching during my trip in the Holy Land last December, I came up with this idea as my advocacy. I prayed to God that I will be able to have an endeavor that will make a difference in people's lives and not just purely for profit,” she narrated.
It is a known fact that banana is among the top export earners of the region. And the biggest plantations are found in Davao del Norte. In short, Joy would not have any problems when it comes to raw materials. Thus, she started weaving banana fiber in January this year with the help of the persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) of the Davao Prison and Penal Farm and the weavers of Davnor Provincial Jail.
“Banana fiber is softer compared to other fibers used as cloth. It is not itchy to the skin,” she said on why she opted banana fiber.
With assistance from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Provincial Public Employment Service Office (Peso), Musa’s Filipiniana wear, casual wear, blazers, bags, brooches, bag charms and face masks have not only reached the locales. These fashionably sustainable products have also gotten the interest of buyers from neighboring cities and others from Visayas and Luzon.
International orders were placed, too, by buyers from the U.S., Canada and Japan.
“I came up with this idea since wearing mask is the new normal now. Rather than wearing make up, particularly for the ladies, I have this product to offer,” she said about her trendy face masks.
At present, DTI is helping her with the legal requirements for patent and trademark.
“To all my fellow designers, especially to my former schoolmates at Philippine Fashion Academy, I am proud of you all for playing a big role in this pandemic by producing face masks and PPEs,” she said.
“Our industry may not be as brilliant as before, but our creativity will never fail. Let's continue to think of beautiful creations and make this present circumstance an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others,” she added.
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