The Philippines prides itself on the creativity of our people, from colorful paintings that depict the joy of our everyday life to music that captures the spirit of our nation. These art forms reflect the beauty of our culture and highlight the awe-inspiring talent of our countrymen.
One of the most important cultural treasures of the Filipino people is our handwoven fabrics crafted through the centuries by indigenous artisans from across many parts of the archipelago. Fabrics like Inabel of Ilocos, T’nalak of Cotabato, and Yakan of Basilan tell the story of our people—with each fiber, every warp and weft, creating a dazzling tapestry of culture, tradition, and artistry.
To celebrate the rich weaving tradition of our people, the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) through the Gateway Gallery is once again holding Habi Fiesta!, an annual fair devoted to Philippine weave and its by-products. The event which takes place from May 16 to 18 at the Gateway Mall 1 Activity Area will bring together vendors of Filipino woven fabric and its products from various weaving communities.
“Habi Fiesta! is our way of celebrating the Heritage Month of May,” Christine Diane Romero, Executive Director of the J. Amado Araneta Foundation said. “Our woven fabrics created by indigenous weavers from various parts of the country are some of the most important symbols of our heritage. It is an enduring tradition handed down over generations that links us directly to the past. These are reminders of the dazzling vibrancy of our culture and the undeniable talent of our people.”
The event is a flagship initiative that supports JAAF’s culture and arts program which is anchored to the Gateway Gallery, the art museum of Araneta City. This year’s edition of Habi Fiesta! features a wider selection of vendors, side activities such as weaving demonstration, and more accessible payment with the vendors’ use of popular digital payment methods.
Some of the participating sellers this year are: Abel Kan Burda Ta Ka Itnegan (Abra), Namarabar Ethnic Products (Abra), Laga Weaving Creations, and Abella’s House of Crafts (Ifugao).
“This event brings together weavers from all over the Philippines to showcase the best the country can offer. We are excited to showcase their products and have more Filipinos see the artistry and talent of our weavers. Each item that you’ll see here is part of the story of who we are as a people, and wearing or using products made from these fabrics is a statement of support and pride for our artisans. We hope you can come and visit Habi Fiesta! and celebrate this important part of our culture and heritage,” Ms. Romero concluded.