Photo Courtesy || Lito Malaggay
Cordillera - In a world where artistry knows no bounds, one man's remarkable journey has unfolded, leaving a trail of inspiration and ingenuity.
Meet Lito Malaggay, fondly known as the "Barot Man" or the "Wire Man," a visionary Igorot artist who has transformed humble wires into extraordinary sculptures, trophies, and a plethora of artistic wonders.
Lito's journey is not just about his artistic prowess but also about his resilience, determination, and unyielding spirit to provide a better life for his family.
Hailing from the picturesque town in Mountain Province, Lito's life took him on a winding path from the uplands to the bustling city of Baguio.
As a young man, he faced the daunting challenges of being a new resident, struggling to make ends meet and sustain his family's needs.
It was amidst these struggles that fate led Lito to his first job as a lineman's assistant during the electrification of barangays in home province.
Little did he know that this role would be the catalyst for his true calling. While supporting more skilled workers and carrying heavy wires, Lito's nimble fingers and innate creativity found their outlet.
He began crafting intricate wire artworks during his free moments, a talent that bloomed amidst the sparks and currents of electrification.
After the electrification project came to a close, Lito found himself at a crossroads. The need to support his growing family compelled him to seek employment at the Easter School Weaving Center.
Here, he embarked on a new journey of learning, honing his skills in tailoring and weaving. He skillfully intertwined native woven patterns into bags, purses, and other items, a true embodiment of Cordilleran heritage.
Yet, destiny had more in store for Lito. A quiet realization dawned upon him that his talents could become a beacon of hope, steering his family away from poverty's grasp.
With courage in his heart, he decided to take the bold step of becoming an entrepreneur, armed with his wire artworks and the determination to succeed.
The road to success was not paved with petals for Lito. Starting without a showroom, he displayed his creations beneath the Abanao Street overpass and the streets of Magsaysay.
Months passed, and the city government's ordinance silenced these public showcases, but Lito's spirit remained undeterred.
He knocked on doors, both figuratively and literally, visiting private and government offices to showcase his works. Rejections and dismissals could not shake his resolve. Slowly but surely, his dedication bore fruit.
Corporate and individual customers began to take notice, recognizing the distinctive charm of his wire artworks. Orders flowed in, especially during special events and occasions, as his creations became sought-after tokens of appreciation.
Malaggay's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering belief in one's abilities.
He transformed adversity into opportunity, using his talents to weave a brighter future for his family. His journey reminds us that innovation knows no bounds, and true artistry lies in the ability to shape beauty from the simplest of materials.
