Pawod making is a traditional craft in Panay, Capiz, involving the weaving of nipa leaves into roofing materials, which are valued for being water-resistant and insulating. The main materials used are nipa leaves, bamboo slats, and pipis, with the weaving mostly done by women and passed on informally to children through hands-on learning. This craft once provided affordable roofing for homes and continues to be used today in cottages, resorts, and eco-friendly structures due to its rustic and sustainable appeal. Historically, Pawod making was a family effort, especially during times of poverty, helping households survive by providing both shelter and income. However, modern roofing materials and changing tastes have reduced its demand, threatening the tradition, though it is still taught through informal means within the community.
Photo Credit/s:
Paul Joseph B. Beloria, 2024
Mappers:
Lemuel Berjamin, Kevin Balatayo, Mary Bernadette Acat
Tags:
bamboo slats, Cultural Preservation, eco-friendly construction, endangered craft, heritage skills, indigenous craftsmanship, informal learning, intergenerational teaching, livelihood tradition, nipa leaf weaving, Panay Capiz craft, Pawod making, pipis, poverty survival craft, rustic architecture, sustainable materials, traditional housing, traditional roofing, vernacular architecture, water-resistant roofing, women weavers
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