Victor Mari C. Baguilat Jr. is a visionary social entrepreneur who has ignited a spark of hope and empowerment for the indigenous women weavers of Julongan village in Kiangan, Ifugao. As the founder and CEO of Kandama Social Enterprise, Victor has demonstrated exceptional leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep commitment to improving lives and contributing to nation-building.

 

Victor's journey began with a personal quest for purpose that led him to social entrepreneurship. Inspired by the dying tradition of weaving in Ifugao, he established Kandama in 2017 with a tripartite vision: to empower indigenous women, preserve culture, and protect the environment. "Kandama" means "power" in the native Tuwali language. It reflects the enterprise's mission to build the means for women to make a living, contribute to their communities, and instill pride in supporting local craft.

 

Through Kandama, Victor has transformed the lives of the Julongan weavers and their community. The enterprise collaborates closely with the weavers, involving them in the design process and ensuring they benefit from the global success of their products. Kandama provides livelihood opportunities, conducts workshops, donates looms, and builds weaving centers in the village. Remarkably, 20-30% of Kandama's income is allocated as direct compensation to the weavers. Meanwhile, 60-70% goes towards community development investments such as financing workshops, women empowerment programs, training, and subsidizing looms and threads.

 

Victor's entrepreneurial spirit shines through in his innovative approach to promoting the weavers' masterpieces. Kandama has leveraged blockchain technology and NFTs to offer customers proof of ownership and authenticity for hand-woven products. This adds value for customers, tells the stories of how the garments are made, and demonstrates Kandama's sustainable and ethical credentials.

 

The impact of Victor's work extends far beyond the local community. Kandama has brought the beauty and craftsmanship of Ifugao weaving to the global stage, participating in prestigious fashion events such as Paris Fashion Week (2019), New York Fashion Week (2019 and 2022), Melbourne Fashion Week (2018), Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival, Cannes Indigenous Arts & Fashion Festival (2023), and Seoul Fashion Week (May 30, 2024). The enterprise's creations have been worn by notable Filipino celebrities and featured in major international publications like Vogue Italia. By connecting the weavers to the global market, Victor has improved their quality of life and equipped them with the skills to succeed in the fashion industry.

 

Victor's leadership and vision have earned Kandama recognition as a "Top 100 Social Enterprises in Asia to Watch Out For In 2018" by the National University of Singapore and the Development Bank of Singapore. His work celebrates Filipino heritage and demonstrates the potential for traditional arts to drive economic development and cultural pride.

 

Through Kandama, Victor Mari C. Baguilat Jr. has ignited a flame of empowerment, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. His exceptional leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to improving lives make him a deserving recipient of the Ramon V. del Rosario Siklab Award 2024.