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| 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.
