BAGUIO CITY – The Baguio Creative City Council is pushing to revive the city’s silver craft industry as the sector struggles with a shrinking number of artisans and limited access to raw materials.
Council co-chairperson Marie Venus Tan said silver crafting remains closely associated with Baguio’s identity but only two established shops, Pilak Silvercraft and Gift Shoppe and Tawid Silver, continue to operate in the city.
Tan said both businesses face difficulties sourcing raw materials, while the pool of skilled silver artisans has also declined.
To adapt, some shops are shifting toward experiential tourism. Pilak Silvercraft, for instance, now allows customers to participate in jewelry-making activities, including creating their own wedding rings.
The shop is also considering becoming an accredited learning site for people who want to study silver crafting.
TESDA-Benguet senior specialist Romar Agpes said the agency is prepared to coordinate with interested silver craft shops to develop training modules and possible scholarship-backed programs.
He said previous efforts to establish formal silver craft training did not push through, but TESDA remains confident the skill can eventually be included in its training programs.
The Baguio Tourism Council is also looking at reviving other traditional industries, including woodcraft and leather footwear making, as part of efforts to preserve local heritage and create opportunities for younger generations.
