The Vianie Aquilla Bicada story

CEBU, Philippines - Talent, creativity, innovations and dedication to work are the basic tools in his craft. Hard work and desire to accomplish are keys to his subsistence. These moved the will of Vianie Aquilla Bicada, 50 years old, an innovative furniture crafter, wood carver, lead man and carpenter.

This craftsman is a native of Barangay Cogon, Tuburan Cebu; a high school graduate, married to Cecilia Sayson in 1982 and blessed with a daughter and two sons. In 1986, after building his house from his sweat and tears in hard-earned savings, he decided to have his own furniture shop from the left-over wood of the house.

For several years, many tough challenges came to his path but he was able to survive using his talent and skills in wood crafting. His daughter graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education; his son an Electronic Engineering graduate and his youngest sons in high school.

In 2009, working hard together with his family, they established an Internet café starting with three computers. Now they have 14 computers in the café managed by his daughter. They also have a business display center in the municipal marketplace.

Striving to achieve more on his innovative designs and concepts, Bicada’s quality works and craftsmanship are now admired and recognized by the Tuburanons and the neighboring townfolks.

From being poor to becoming entrepreneurial, Bicada has contributed a portion to the economy of the municipality through his small scale businesses.  (FREEMAN)