Mangyan craftsmanship. In every piece lies a legacy—one that echoes with the beauty of tradition and the promise of innovation. At a trade fair in Makati, Andrea Benoya proudly presents the artistry and culture of the Mangyan people.
A HANDRICRAFT artistry business in San Juan, Occidental Mindoro, empowers the province’s Indigenous Mangyan community by creating traditional and contemporary pieces, making its way to prominence in the region’s rich cultural heritage.
At the heart of it all is Andrea “Te Anding” Benoya, whose passion for preserving the Mangyan way of life flows through every thread, bead, and piece her workshop produces. At 60 years old, she blends mangyan artistry with modern design, creating handicrafts that tell the story of her people.
One of her most skilled basket weavers, remarkably, is blind. For Benoya, the journey is not just about business but people, “honoring their individuality, nurturing their talents, and ensuring that their heritage shines through every piece.”
Te And’s Handicraft employs two Mangyan families, who skillfully weave habol into ramit—textiles transformed into scarves, clothing, and fashion accessories. The intricate beadwork, including necklaces and bracelets, showcases traditional Mangyan designs.
According to Benoya, her mission is to ensure that Mangyan artistry continues to thrive, “What I admire about the Mangyan is their artistry. It would be a shame if their talent remained hidden, especially since it’s a means of livelihood for them,” she explained.
Benoya also trains her teenage volunteers, affectionately calling them her students, to create purses and souvenir items.
“Continue your traditions,” Benoya advised, “ the elders have the power to encourage the younger generation to carry on this work.”
Before taking a leap of faith into the industry in 2005, Benoya envisioned promoting Mangyan culture through handcrafted artistry. In 2017, the enterprise expanded through local and national trade fairs, solidifying its market presence.
Today, Te And’s Handicraft products can be purchased in three pasalubong centers, with a production workshop in San Jose.
