Showcasing the beauty and innovation of Filipino textiles in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – On November 7, 2024, the Philippines opened the exhibition “HabiI: Discovering Possibilities for Philippine Fibers” at Thomas Jefferson University to showcase Philippine fibers and their unique applications in fashion, design and industry.

The exhibition is a joint effort of the Department of Trade and Industry – Philippine Trade and Investment Center (DTI-PTIC) in New York, the Philippine Consulate General in New York, the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST). PTRI) and Thomas Jefferson University.

The habi is supported by the DTI’s Malikhaing Pinoy program and is made of fibers such as “abaca” or Manila hemp, “piña” or pineapple fiber and bamboo. Indigenous communities and artisans in the Philippines, including T’nalak, Piña Seda, Kantarines, Pinilian, Yakan, Hablon and Pigi, produced hand-woven textiles from these fibers.

Hayward Hall exhibits hand-woven fabrics including T’nalak, Piña seda, Kantarines, Pinilian, Kankanaey, Hablon, Pigi and others made by indigenous communities and local artisans from different regions of the Philippines. QR codes accompany each textile, allowing visitors to explore the unique origins and cultural significance of each weaving tradition. (Photos by PTIC-NY)

Produced primarily by women-led micro and small businesses, these weaves reflect the cultural diversity, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Filipino weaving communities.

At the opening, DTI Trade Commissioner Benedict M. Uy emphasized the cultural and economic importance of the exhibition.

“The HabiI exhibition not only showcases our cultural heritage but also highlights the tremendous opportunities for Filipino fibers in global markets. Every fiber, every fabric tells a story of heritage, resilience and innovation, illustrating the potential of these materials for a global audience,” he said.

Each exhibition has a corresponding QR code that allows visitors to discover the origins and cultural significance of the textile’s provincial roots.

The opening ceremony was followed by a fireside chat where the National Commission on Culture and the Arts and the office of Senator Loren B. Legarda held an in-depth discussion on Filipino textiles.

Moderated by Professor Marcia Weiss, interim dean of the Thomas Jefferson University School of Design and Engineering, the chat covered various topics such as cultural preservation, sustainable practices and the global potential of Filipino fibers.

DTI Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba during the fireside chat highlighted the impact of the Philippine fiber industry on economic growth and job creation, supporting the livelihoods of over 1.5 million people, with 68 percent of the workforce being women.

“Our textiles not only preserve our heritage but also create jobs and economic value. This is reflected in the growing global demand for eco-friendly fashion that uses sustainable fibers such as abaca and piña. To capitalize on these market opportunities, events like Habi connect Filipino fibers to the global market, promote collaboration and showcase the potential of Filipino artisans,” the undersecretary said.

During the event, the panel emphasized the importance of preserving traditional techniques while leveraging innovation to bring Filipino textiles to the world stage.

Panelists included DTI Trade Commissioner Benedict M. Uy, DOST-PTRI Director Julius L. Leaño Jr., Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority Executive Director Evelyn B. Cagasan, cultural critic Marian Pastor Roces and Maison Métisse founder Adrienne Charuel.

Additionally, the event was attended by Thomas Jefferson University leaders, including President Dr. Susan C. Aldridge, Provost Dr. Matt D. Baker, Senior Vice President Dr. Jeff Cromarty and Kanbar College Dean Dr. Ron Kander. Other participants included faculty, students and members of the Filipino community, who also celebrated the milestone of the cultural and academic partnership.

Citing the success of the event, Dr. Aldridge expressed her optimism for future collaboration between her institution and the Philippines. “We imagine scholarships, joint projects in the areas of textiles, fashion and sustainability as well as opportunities for lecturer exchanges. This partnership opens up a bright future for all of us.”

The exhibition “HabiI: Discovering Possibilities for Philippine Fibers” promotes an intercultural dialogue that highlights the Philippines’ rich textile heritage and its growing role in the global market. It is open to the public through December 16, 2024 at Thomas Jefferson University’s Hayward Hall. PR