DAWN Today

Through the intervention of PTRI, DAWN could now supply its handwoven fabric requirements, dyed at any desired shades. The DAWN-assisted women have expanded their production to tie-dyed t-shirts and fabrics and handwoven scarves, shawls, table runners, and place mats. Soon, they will come out with handwoven silk products. The creativity, combined with the required skills, helps these women to explore more exciting and colorful designs that suit the varied taste and demand of the Japanese, which is their major client.

The weaving center in Malate (Manila) now has four handlooms, one warping frame, and dyeing facilities capable of producing the requirements of the clients. A new flat knitting machine has also been acquired by donation. Its sewing center in Ermita is equipped with seven sewing machines, including an edging and a buttonholer.

DAWN regularly calls and visits PTRI for consultancy services relating to problems in loom operation, execution of weave designs, uneven shades, and dye and textile material specifications. A group of PTRI experts visits the center for a one-on-one discussion and monitoring.

PTRI intervention is a never-ending task. It supports DAWN’s advocacy on every woman’s right to regain her dignity and reaffirm her role in society despite her past and the presence of threatening odds. It contributed to the emergence of an empowered human being, aware of her rights and enjoying the triumphs of femininity and the strength of womanhood.

Is there still life after being a Japayuki? To this question, the answer is a resounding yes for Mary Joy Barcelona, lmelda Balayo, and Josie Avelino, a remarkable few of those Filipina entertainers who were unfortunately robbed of their rights as workers by becoming victims of sexual and drug abuse, trafficking, and prostitution but have boldly returned and have successfully found their new places under the sun.