Sharon Quisaba Abdon

CnelleJ Souvenir Shop

Iraya Mangyan Tribe

I’m Sharon Quisaba Abdon, founder of CNELLEJ Souvenir Shop, a business born out of a deep desire to preserve the rich weaving heritage of the Mangyan tribes in Mindoro, Philippines. The name CNELLEJ comes from my two children, Charnelle Joy and Chrisnelle John, and our trademark phrase “GAWA IRAYA” honours the Iraya Mangyan tribe. Their ancestors were the original weavers of the beautiful handwoven products made of nito (forest vine) that we proudly feature. Today, this precious knowledge is being shared among other Mangyan communities.

Our journey began in April 2017, when my husband, a pastor, and I established Living Grace Bible Baptist Church in Brgy. Dulangan, Puerto Galera. I saw the need to economically support Indigenous women in our congregation. That’s when CNELLEJ was born, starting with a few handcrafted items made by Iraya Mangyan church members.

Now, we assist 25 Indigenous women artisans, and I’m hopeful we’ll grow back to our pre-pandemic level of 90+. By partnering with us, these women are assured that their incredible craft is being preserved and that they have a sustainable opportunity to earn. CNELLEJ Souvenir Shop is committed to assisting them with the marketing of their exquisite products, ensuring their artistry reaches a wider audience. We provide these artisans the assurance that their traditional craft remains vibrant, coupled with the opportunity for a stable income.