Sogod parol makers see opportunity in Yolanda damage

Aside from the nativity scene,  one of the most widely recognized symbols of yuletide festivities in the country is the traditional Filipino Christmas lantern or “parol.”

Stars of all shapes and colors are hung on doorposts, windowsills, and ceilings of homes come the advent of the season.

Common designs are made from various materials —  foil, papier mache, Japanese paper, cellphone or  plastic sheets.

In Sogod town, northern Cebu,  basket weavers have turned to parol making to earn money during the holiday season.

Sesinio Pepito, 49, a basket weaver, ventured into parol making in September last year.

“This was our offering to the people. So that when they pass by our town, they can have something to hang in their homes when they get back,” he said in Cebuano.

Everything changed when Yolanda swept through northern Cebu.

Pepito however saw  Yolanda’s damage as an opportunity to earn.

“Our lanterns were selling fast. Many  foreign and local volunteers were coming here, and they were buying our lanterns on their way home,” he said.

Pepito and other Christmas decor makers in  town start displaying their products in small wooden stalls along the Sogod highway from September  through December.

The prices  range from P150 to P2,000, depending on the size and  design.

There are lanterns shaped as fish, reindeer and miniature houses aside from the traditonal star.

The intricate details  can be attributed to the fact that most of the makers, including Pepito, used to work in furniture factories that produced export-quality rattan furniture.

Pepito said that all their products are durable and sturdy.