THE City Government promotes the produce of the handicrafts made by inmates of the Cagayan de Oro City Jail as they partner with the Department of Industry (DTI) to sell the products to Go Lokal! stores.
Patrick Gabutina, coordinator of the city's Hapsay Buhay, a program which aims to empower inmates said, a lampshade made of recycled spoons and forks have made it to Go Lokal stores.
“We're very proud to say that the lampshade that is made out of recycled spoons and forks are now being sold in Go Lokal Stores sa DTI,” he said.
“Hopefully, we can mass produce or launch it officially so that our inmates, even if inside the jail, can still earn,” Gabutina added.
Gabutina pointed out that the creator of the said lampshade is not free, this is why they are working to train more inmates into lampshade-making.
The lampshade is sold at P400 to 500. The city hall provides an amount for the necessary material while the DTI provides the training.
“They are inside the jail for so many years, so we are hoping that when they are set free, they are empowered and reformed persons, and that's what Hapsay Buhay is for, teach inmates livelihood programs,” he said.
Go Lokal! is a retail concept store showcasing quality and innovative Philippine products crafted, designed, and produced by the country's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Christy Gabia, officer-in-charge of the DTI-Northern Mindanao's Business development Division said this serves as marketing platform for MSMEs to gain access to the lucrative local consumer market, and ultimately, to the global export market.
Initiated by the DTI in collaboration with selected retail partners, Go Lokal! is an excellent marketing venue provided for free also for MSME incubation and branding.
“We are providing training and seminars for the inmates. And we're very much looking forward to working with them,” Gabia said.