The Anahaw Fan Industry in Sta Cruz, Canaman, Camarines Sur

Abstract The findings indicated that the anahaw fan industry in Sta. Cruz, Canaman, Camarines Sur was predominantly composed of long-established producers, with the majority engaged in fan-making for more than sixteen years. This longevity reflected the deep cultural embeddedness of the craft and the role of inherited skills in sustaining production over time. However, despite extensive experience, most producers operated with limited capitalization, small labor forces, and modest production volumes, indicating that the industry remained micro-scale in nature. The dominance of multiple and informal sources of capital suggested that producers relied heavily on personal networks and borrowing rather than institutional financing. This financial structure constrained the ability of producers to expand operations, invest in improved tools, or diversify product lines. Similarly, the limited number of workers per enterprise reinforced the family-based character of production and highlighted labor constraints that restricted scalability. Market participation was largely confined to local and nearby areas, with minimal engagement in digital or export markets. This limited market diversification reduced exposure to broader demand opportunities and increased vulnerability to local market fluctuations. Taken together, these findings showed that while the anahaw fan industry exhibited continuity and resilience at the household level, structural limitations in capital, labor, and market reach constrained enterprise growth and modernization.