Weaving Stories of Culture and Heritage

Formalized via Proclamation No. 313 in 2012 during the term of President Benigno Aquino III, the month-long observance has traditionally been led by the Philippine Textile Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PTRI), with activities, highlights and events intent on raising awareness about the use of natural fibers derived from pineapple, banana and abaca, among many others.

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In a bid to harmonize with the month's intentions and goals, we're running this roundup on some of Philippine's popular fabrics and textiles - products that weave a story of culture and heritage.

Not widely-known in Cebu (mostly owing to the weeks-spanning Sinulog Festival) is January's distinction as "Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month" - a month-long observance instituted to promote indigenous products and bring attention to the intricacies entailed in their making.

Sinamay

Sinamay is a stiff, open-weave fabric made from abaca fibers. It is known for having a lightweight-but-strong factor, a versatile state and lustrous finish, which makes it a prime material for elegant hats, appliques and applicable decorative items.

Its distinct texture comes from processing abaca fibers and weaving them, allowing the item to be easily shaped with heat and moisture.

Abaca Silk

Abaca silk is a luxurious, durable, and lightweight fabric made by weaving strong abaca fibers with delicate silk threads, which results in a material with a natural sheen, smooth texture and vibrant color.

These qualities makes the fabric ideal for high-end millinery, sculpted headpieces and fashion accessories where draping and shape-holding/molding are involved.

Hablon