Cover Photo: HABI Textile Council

Support the indigenous talents of Filipino artisans at the Likhang HABI Market Fair this 21-27 October 2020

Now more than ever, people have begun to understand the importance of sustaining local. Amid the pandemic, Filipinos have turned to each other and continued to uplift SMEs, local businesses, and local craftsmanship. This month, we turn our sights towards another noble endeavour, one that everyone can be proud to support. The HABI Textile Council, who stands at the forefront of the preservation, promotion, and enhancement of Philippine textiles, is launching its annual Market Fair this coming 21 October 2020. Set to run for a week until the 27th, the Market Fair brings new innovation to traditional art by utilising the digital platform to support their craftsmen and women. 

“There are many beautiful fabrics from the different areas in our country. One of our main goals at HABI is to make sure that our traditional textiles will still be a part of our modern lifestyle as we transition to the new normal,” HABI chairperson, Maribel Ongpin, says. 

Read also: Weaving The Threads Of Filipino Heritage

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Photo 1 of 3 Photo: HABI Textile Council
Photo 2 of 3 Photo: HABI Textile Council
Photo 3 of 3 Photo: HABI Textile Council

The online trade fair is set to launch at shophabifair.com come the 21st. There, customers can expect to see an exciting line-up of crafts from jewellery, to homeware, to fashion, and textiles. Exciting designs — be it in twill, checkered, or double weave patterns — await for those in search of truly unique pieces. Not only that, but a chance to support such a beautiful art is not one to be missed. According to Mike Claparols, one of the fair committee members, there are only about 5,000 or so weavers left in the entire country! This dying art is in dire need of support, and with good reason. HABI Textile Council members assure us that Philippine cotton is just as good as Egyptian cotton. Our designs and weaving techniques are just as versatile too; whether our local weavers are utilising Philippine cotton, piña, or abaca fibres, it's sure to be a world-class piece perfect for home or wear.

The HABI Market Fair website will be functional on any and all electronic devices. It's incredibly easy to use — simply add to your cart and check out. Payment methods include debit or credit card, as well as GCash, and Grab Pay.  

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Photo 1 of 3 Photo: HABI Textile Council
Photo 2 of 3 Photo: HABI Textile Council
Photo 3 of 3 Photo: HABI Textile Council

The Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition 

Artisans looking for an outlet are also welcome to submit entries to the third Annual Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition. A champion of indigenous textiles, Lourdes Montinola is also a part of the Tatler 400 List. Her namesake competition aims to spotlight the exceptional craftsmanship involved in the mastery of piña weaving. Arguably one of the most recognisable of the Philippine arts, piña weaving is demonstrative of the dexterity and skill of our countrymen and women. This competition is open to all who have talent in weaving, dyeing, embroidering or embellishing piña fibres. Entries are open until the 15th of October.

Read also: Liwayway, La Herminia, Filip + Inna, And More: Local Brands That Champion Filipino Weaving Heritage

Webinars On Weaving 

As a holistic, educational experience, guests are also invited to join in on a series of webinars hosted by HABI. These will revolve around the topics of Filipino identity, contemporary cultural practices, and the Philippine diaspora. Aimed at encouraging dialogue, these webinars will help participants understand how varied experiences have shaped the Filipino culture in both thoughts and actions. 

A four-day summit entitled "Mga Hibla ng Pamana: A Summit on Weaving as Intangible Cultural Heritage" will also discuss solutions on how to protect and preserve traditional weaving practices and customs. 

Those who are interested may also avail of Dr Norma Respicio and Gayle Zialcita's new book, "Weaving Ways: Filipino Styles and Techniques", which will be available at the online store. 

Read also: All About The Barong Tagalog: The Traditional Filipino Men's Attire


For more information, you may follow HABI Textile Council on their social media

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