27/07/2026
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๐จ๐๐ฎ๐ฌ: ๐๐. ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐. ๐๐๐๐๐
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ฎ๐๐ญ๐: ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ก ๐
๐๐ก๐๐ข๐ซ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐จ๐ง: ๐๐๐ง ๐๐จ๐ฌ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ญ๐ข-๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฉ๐จ๐ฌ๐ ๐๐จ๐จ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐
๐๐๐๐๐๐๐: ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐
For generations, the intricate patterns of Binakol weaving have reflected the artistry, culture, and identity of Sarrat, Ilocos Norte. Behind every woven masterpiece are skilled artisans whose dedication keeps this treasured tradition alive. Today, under the leadership of Ms. Sharon B. Justo, Chairperson of San Jose Multipurpose Cooperative (San Jose MPC), the legacy of Binakol continues to thrive while creating meaningful livelihood opportunities for the community.
Ms. Justo's journey with San Jose MPC began in 2001, when she joined the cooperative as a seller in its consumer store. Through years of dedication, continuous learning, and commitment to serving its members, she steadily took on greater responsibilities and, in 2024, was elected as the cooperative's Chairperson. Today, she leads San Jose MPC in strengthening its operations while preserving the rich tradition of Binakol weaving.
Taking on the role of Chairperson came with challenges. The cooperative had to respond to changing market demands, strengthen its operations, maintain consistent production, and preserve the traditional art of Binakol weaving. Guided by teamwork, innovation, and a shared commitment to the community, Ms. Justo continues to lead the cooperative toward sustainable growth.
Under her leadership, San Jose MPC has strengthened its Kolhabi brand by introducing innovative handcrafted Binakol products, expanding its participation in regional and national trade fairs, and creating more livelihood opportunities for local weavers. These initiatives have increased the visibility of Kolhabi while bringing the artistry of Sarrat to a wider market.
A significant contributor to the cooperative's continued growth has been its participation in the Department of Trade and Industry's Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program. Building on the foundation established through previous KMME graduates within the cooperative, Ms. Justo further enhanced her knowledge in business management, financial planning, marketing, branding, and product development. The mentorship and practical learning provided by the program have helped strengthen the cooperative's operations, improve the competitiveness of its Kolhabi products, and equip its leaders to make sound business decisions for sustainable growth.
Today, Kolhabi proudly showcases authentic handwoven Binakol fabrics and handcrafted products made by the skilled weavers of Sarrat, Ilocos Norte. Every piece reflects the community's creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. By supporting Kolhabi, customers help preserve one of the Philippines' treasured weaving traditions while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local artisans.
Looking ahead, Ms. Justo envisions San Jose MPC becoming one of the country's leading producers of premium Binakol products by expanding its product lines, strengthening its online presence, reaching export markets, and encouraging more young artisans to continue the weaving tradition.
As Ms. Justo shares, "Success comes through hard work, perseverance, and continuous learning. Never stop improving your skills and never forget your roots. Our culture and traditions are valuable treasures that deserve to be preserved. Together, let us support local products, strengthen our cooperatives, and inspire the next generation to continue the art of Binakol weaving."
Customers may visit San Jose Multipurpose Cooperative at Brgy. San Jose, Purok 6, Camanggaan, Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, explore its products at the OTOP Hub located at Laoag International Airport, or follow Kolhabi โ San Jose MPC on Facebook for updates on upcoming trade fairs, new product launches, and promotions.
San Jose MPC continues to demonstrate that with dedicated leadership, continuous learning through the DTI's KMME Program, and a strong commitment to preserving tradition, local enterprises can transform cultural heritage into sustainable opportunities for community growth.
