Blacksmith Training in Sagada, 13 to 21 September 2008

Trainees from Panay, Masbate, and Isabela learned the basics of blacksmithing and practiced making tools in an eight-day training in Sagada.

Along with the representatives of different people's organizations in Masbate, Iloilo, and Isabela, TABI's, OFFERS-Panay's, and CDPC's staff members joined the training. 

A blacksmith from MRDC and another from a people's organization in Nibat facilitated the workshops, with assistance from PNFSP volunteer Roger Camps.

At training's end, the participants had created a total of 85 tools including tongs, chisels, punchers, bolos, a plow, and other small agricultural implements.

Notes on the images

Images 1 and 2
Participants and facilitators set two general targets: a) to learn, improve, and exchange skills on toolmaking and b) to know what is required for setting up a community-based blacksmith shop.

Image 3
Participants set out to collectively make a plow.

Image 4
Creating and using tongs – basic blacksmith's tools – were learned early on.

Image 5
Participants suggested several welding techniques. While electric or diesel-powered equipment are in common use, a Sagada blacksmith suggested an alternative welding technique that uses powder and fire. This method will be demonstrated in future blacksmith training sessions.

Image 6
Trainees try their hand at the forge.

Images 7 and 8
Trainees were taught hammering techniques.

Image 9
Participants created blades for small bolos.

Images 10 to 14
The plow is the most complex tool to come out of the workshop.

Image 15
The participants, grouped by region, presented the tools they made.

Images 16
The 14 participants took home the tools they made.