Pamahandi

BAE LA PAZ | FRANCESCA ERICH LIM

Representing the Municipality of La Paz, Francesca Erich Lim is a young woman driven by purpose, leadership, and a passion for making a difference. Through her advocacy for youth and literacy, she hopes to empower future generations by promoting education, accessibility, and opportunities for all.

As we continue to feature this year's Bae Naliyagan candidates, get to know the inspiring women behind the crowns and the advocacies they proudly champion.

Like and follow Beauties Filipinas for more candidate features, pageant updates, and exclusive content from this year's Bae Naliyagan journey!

📌 Disclaimer: This post is shared for informational and appreciation purposes only as part of our coverage of this year's candidates. Beauties Filipinas is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected with the Bae Naliyagan organization. The views and content presented do not represent the official pageant, its organizers, judges, or results.

𝐀 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞

In the rugged landscapes of La Paz, Agusan del Sur, a vibrant tradition continues to thrive: Suyam. At the heart of this enduring craft is Jerlyn H. Coguit, better known as Bae Pamahandi. As the Chairperson of the Tribal Women Weavers Handicrafts and Suyam Association (TWWHSA), Inc., she serves as the guardian of a 46-year-old tradition.

This heritage was passed down to her by her grandmother, Bae Buja or the late Kujompo C. Coguit, a pinadajang—the Manobo term for a princess.

Ms. Jerlyn’s journey began in 1992, fulfilling orders within her local community. Over the years, her artistry expanded into intricate beadwork, including tribal outfits, bracelets, necklaces, and ID slings. Beyond the loom and the needle, her true passion lies in education; she travels across the Caraga region to share these techniques. For Jerlyn, this is more than a craft—it is a lifelong advocacy to ensure their culture remains a living force for the next generation.

However, the path to growth wasn't easy without its hurdles. For years, Jerlyn struggled to expand because she lacked the formal documentation required for an enterprise such as Business Permit and BIR Registration. While she registered her Business Name with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in 2018, she found herself still unable to bid for government procurements or access larger markets due to lacking documentary requirements.

Determined to bridge the gap between tradition and modern commerce, she took a big step in 2024. The association officially registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a incorporation, finally securing the formal foundation needed for broader and wider market opportunities. Supported by One Town One Product (OTOP) interventions—including product and brand development, trainings and seminars, and participation in regional and national trade events—the enterprise flourished. Today, the business supports the Lumad community and employs 40 Indigenous People. As the brand grew, demand for "Suyam" products expanded across the Philippines, fueled by a growing public appreciation for their rich history and cultural value.

The year 2024 also marked a series of monumental milestones at the national level. She was honored with the Gawad Pilipino Awards 2024 for Natatanging Pilipina sa Iba’t-ibang Larangan: Babae Ka Awards and received prestigious recognition from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) as practinioneer and advocate in the preservation and safeguarding the Indigenous People’s Rights to Cultural Integrity.

Committed to giving back to her roots, she serves as a dedicated educator and mentor, sharing her mastery in Suyam for the next generation of Mag-susuyam. By passing down these techniques, she ensures the long-term sustainability of the craft—a tradition that has become the vital "bread and butter" for her entire community. This legacy does more than provide a livelihood; it honors the heritage of the Manobo tribe and elevates the traditional artistry that is the pride of Agusan del Sur.

DTI Philippines DTI Caraga PIA - Agusan del Sur XFM 91.3 San Francisco - Agusan del Sur 100.1 Nonglading Infinite Radio San Francisco



'sMonthCelebration