The city government is entering into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Department of Science and Technology- Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) and various woodcarving cooperatives to improve the industry.

City council information officer Jordan Habbiling on Tuesday said city hall is working out the upgrading of the woodcarving industry through science, technology, and innovation.

He said the city council has authorized the city’s executive to enter into a MOA for the project that will be funded by the DOST-CAR worth PHP1.26 million.

Habbiling said the project will be carried out in two phases and will be completed in 2023.

The DOST provides financial assistance for Science and Technology interventions, in coordination with other government agencies and with local government units in various sectors to improve initiatives that will lead to better income for the beneficiaries.

Among the cooperatives that will benefit from the project include Mondiguing’s Woodcraft and Souvenir Shop, Melba’s Souvenir Shop, Jetjed Handicraft, Tayaban Furniture, and Chrisdens Handicraft and Furniture Shop, all registered cooperatives located along Asin Road, Baguio City.

Woodcarving is among the oldest industries that gave prominence to the city and the region. (PNA)