TitoBuilding stability by hand

Carpenter · Potter · Small-scale entrepreneur

Tito guiding timber through workshop machinery — Photo 02 · L1020980-2

A future built by hand

Tito has been making furniture and ceramic pots in his small workshop in Cebu since 2012. His business follows a seasonal rhythm.

Tito measuring a piece of wood — Photo 11 · DSCF0002

Tito working at a bench in his open-air workshop — Photo 05 · L1021141

A workshop of his own

During the quieter months, orders can be scarce, but between December and June there is plenty of work to keep him busy. At the time of photography, he was completing orders for seven doors and five sets of chairs.

A finished wooden chair made by Tito — Photo 03 · L1021007

Tito standing beneath a family graduation banner — Photo 07 · DSCF0151

Tito's workshop and timber yard — Photo 04 · L1021095-2

The meaning of an order

At 53, Tito has the experience and skills to make a living crafting furniture from locally sourced hardwoods. His challenge is less about finding customers than having enough money to purchase the materials needed to fill their orders. Without sufficient working capital, he must complete a sale before reinvesting the proceeds into materials for the next order. It's a cycle that limits how much work he can take on, even when demand is strong.

Tito seated among work in progress — Photo 08 · DSCF0144

Independence, stability and hope

A loan through Lendwithcare partner LAMAC MPC gives Tito the opportunity to purchase materials in advance and take on more orders during the busy season. For a craftsman whose livelihood depends on making the most of those few productive months, access to capital can make the difference between simply keeping up with demand and building a more secure business.