The Art of Mat Weaving: The Jama Mapun Weavers of Oring-Oring, Brooke's Point, Palawan
ART OF MAT WEAVING: The Jama Mapun Weavers of Oring-Oring, Brooke’s Point, Palawan BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE The municipality of Brooke’s Point is a first class town located at the south-eastern portion of the province of Palawan. It is approximately 215 kilometers from Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. Comprising 18 barangays, the municipality of Brooke’s Point is known as the province’s “food basket”. One of these Barangays is Barangay Oring-Oring. I was born and raised in Barangay Oring-Oring and have early on learned about the magnificent art of mat weaving. Being deeply rooted in our community, I have grown fondness for these colorful works of Jama Mapun women of our barangay. The intricate designs, vibrant colors, the softness of work, and the dedication of the weavers amazed me and still amazes me each time I see their works. The livelihood of the people in Barangay Oring-Oring is mostly coconut farming and fishing. Out in the sea or in the farm lands are the men while t