#talimisland

[fallindrops]

Free parking ⛵ #TalimIsland https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn5u3FhA2e28YJCcdjkVHuwK__yjcx8d3uWifA0/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1s00rdkai6z0m

[fieldnotesofacasualtourist-blog]

Talim, A Thriving Craftsmen’s Island

There is an island called Talim. When it translated, it means sharp. The name sends sharp chills down the spine. It has a smell of fear; of bloodshed; and cult ritual. Leaving an impression of grotesque graphic imagery and barbaric way of living. But in truth, it is a thriving community.

It was bright, sunny and cheerful when we traveled to Binangonan from Manila. Then the weather has suddenly changed when we arrived at Barangay Libis Pier. Dark clouds came out from nowhere began to form on the horizon, overshadowing the sun. A few minutes later, the rain fell and The Doors' "Riders on the Storm" became our first anthem of the day.

Above, of boats and fishermen at the pier

The lake was a bit temperamental during the duration of our boat ride; and the current treat me like I was a child being put to sleep. Fish pens after fish pens were all we saw on the vastness of the lake, adding up to the feeling of drowsiness. Before reaching Talim Island, the rain has ceased. From a near distance, we saw a couple of fishermen mooring their boats to the dock. Shortly, we arrived at Purok II Barangay Sapang. 

Above, fishermen of Talim Island. Top. Barangay Sapang dock 

Talim Island is abundant with bamboo trees. Hence, bamboo crafting is another major source of income for the community aside from fishing. Every alley and nook, you can spot a group of men sawing long bamboo stems in different lengths; family busily crafting bamboo products of different sizes, from everyday furniture pieces to lighting fixtures and fashion accessories. But take heed. Before you can buy and own one of these, you need to go to REMAI.

Above, bamboo craftsmen at Barangay Sapang

Rizal Exporters and Manufacturers Association, Inc. (REMAI), a non-profit organization run by Tibiriade Community Foundation. Basically REMAI is the cosa nostra for the gifts, decors, and houseware (GDH) industry in Rizal. More or less, there are 18 family or member companies — all of them are engaged in the handicraft business of the province. We were introduced to Moses Mesa, a veteran bamboo craftsman with a 30-year long experience with the craft, more of an underboss if you would say.   

Above, REMAI property

Mesa toured us around their two-story property. The ground floor served as their showroom where all the finished products were on display and for sale. At the back, is where the workshop area. On the second floor, the storage area.

Bamboo crafts from Talim Island are being sold in Metro Manila, in bazaars and trade fairs; other nearby provinces, such as Laguna and Cavite; also in neighboring towns of Rizal.

Above, REMAI showroom

Like what I’ve said before, I gave my utmost respect to these craftsmen and to their chosen craft. And I will reiterate again. Each finished product they produced was a piece of their story imprinted; a fragment of their life etched on — may it be a tragic one, a sorrowful chapter, or just a simple dream of hope for a better life — these products are their life’s extensions. 

[After this photo coverage, my nifty-fifty broke down into three parts. This lens finally gave in after five long years of heavy usage. It was one of my fave lenses that I usually bring in my travels — work and personal. It was my main workhorse when it comes to food and portrait photography. My Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II served its main purpose and produced a quality work. But the good thing was, we were done with the coverage and that signaled me to shift system.]

[pamaragoncillo]

You never failed in giving us perfect sunset. ❤ #TalimIsland #Home