(SPOT.ph) Philippine textile is known for its intricacy and quality craftsmanship, and it's no surprise that our local fabrics are making waves the world over. HABI: The Philippine Textile Council recognizes the importance of preserving, promoting, and enhancing this art and supporting local weavers, and one of their initiatives to help keep the industry alive is the annual Likhang HABI Market Fair. This three-day event, which runs from October 12 to 14 at the activity area of Glorietta, Ayala Center Makati, is a showcase of Philippine-made textile products by traditional weavers from all over the Philippines, including Kalinga, Ifugao, Mindoro, and Basilan.
This year's edition puts a focus on women weavers with the theme, “Woven Voyages: 8th Likhang Habi Textile Fair 2018.” With more than 80 exhibitors taking part in the event, expect colorful merchandise that use natural fabrics, such as items by Filipina artist and designer Dita Sandico, bags by the Yakans of Basilan, and hand-woven blankets, covers, and napkins by Ilokanos.
Exhibitors include established brands such as as Rurungan sa Tukod Foundation, Interweave, Yakang Yaka, Manila Collectible, Casa Mercedes, Filip+Inna, Gifts & Graces Foundation, Good Luck, Humans, La Herminia Piña, Liwayway Handicraft, Creative Definitions, Kalinga Weaving, and Ayala Foundation, Inc.
For the first time, the show will include textile exhibitors from Brunei, Indonesia, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Aside from exhibiting the works of our neighboring countries, there will also be loom-weaving demonstrations, cultural dances, musical performances, and food tasting. Guests will also be entertained with a fashion show and a concert by the St. Scholastica’s College School of Music.
Another highlight of the fair is the awarding of the Lourdes Montinola Piña Prize to the chosen exhibitors, which recognizes exceptional piña weaving.
For more information, visit HABI The Philippine Textile Council's Facebook page.