In the local weaving industry, when one mentions the word “hablon,” the Municipality of Oton rings a bell on the ear of those in trade. There is Salngan Livelihood Multi-Purpose Cooperative, a producer of hand woven products: barong, shawl, bandana, patadyong, throw pillow, handkerchief, and textiles supported by Taytay Sang Kauswagan and the Local Government Unit of Oton. Salngan Oton, Iloilo, a
30 minute tricycle ride from the town. SLMPC was formally formed on the year 2005 and was duly registered in the Cooperative Development Authority on May 22, 2007 under registration number 9520-06011198. The cooperative was given promotional boost with its participation in trade fairs and displaying their products at Tinukib. SLMPC now exists for seven years and still continuing to generate more jobs in the community. The hablon fabric has emerged into versatile and unique textile, currently making waves in the Philippine and international haute couture. It also shows great potentials in the global market for textiles, next to the old-time favorite, piña and jusi. Hablon has caught the attention of fashion designers who have developed a distinct couture out of it and has made its way into several fashion houses in the United States, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom. Daily presentations through series of trade shows does not only showcase the creativity of the local weavers but more importantly, it hopes to generate sustained demand for the local fabrics both in Iloilo and nationwide. Hablon's future in the fashion industry is also positive. Events like fashion shows and trade fairs featuring hablon products foster inter-generational connections, share new techniques and project ideas, and provide opportunities for shopping of hand-made unique gifts and collectibles, putting to fore the art of hand weaving. Given the aforementioned advancements in the hablon industry in the Philippines it is presumed that it will give positive effects to the business of Salngan Livelihood Multi-Purpose Cooperative, there is a high need for products that SLMPC offers. With the assistance of private and public organizations, the reconstruction of the building and the acquisition of the land for SLMPC would occur within 2014-2015, the procurement of new furniture and fixtures and machineries and equipment is also considered in order to supply higher demands, cater more customers, offer quality products that will provide customer satisfaction and increase in cooperative's revenue. The vision of the cooperative to a progressive community and be known nationwide is expected to come into reality with the aid of its active members who are dedicated to excellence in every aspect of hablon weaving.