From July 1 to 5, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) through the Committee on Northern Cultural Communities successfully conducted a five-day training program titled “Knowledge Transfer on Ayuma (Lambat)/Traditional Fishing Crafts Making for Pangasinan Youth by Cultural Masters in Lingayen, Pangasinan.” The event, held at the JCSGO Campsite in LERA, Libsong East, aimed to preserve and pass down traditional fishing craft techniques to the younger generation.

Mr. Christopher Dudang, a respected culture bearer, led the training on preparing the “Bak-Kag” frame of DAGDAG using bamboo (Bayog). Meanwhile, Mr. Ramir Cabotaje, a local fisherman and cultural expert, guided the participants through the intricate process of crafting fishing nets.

The first four days of the workshop focused on teaching the youth how to make Dagdag and Tapigo, traditional fishing implements. Each day, the participants engaged in hands-on activities, honing their skills under the careful guidance of the cultural masters.

This initiative brought together 27 enthusiastic participants, including 18 males and 9 females, for an immersive experience in traditional fishing craft. The sessions ran from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, featuring hands-on training in two key skills essential to the local fishing culture.