Baguio Showcases Indigenous Artistry and National Pride

Baguio City- The vibrant artistry of indigenous Filipino weaving took center stage once again at Habing Katutubo 4, held on October 28, 2023, at the BCNHS Auditorium. This year's event not only celebrated the rich traditions of hand-woven textiles but also highlighted the importance of leadership and national pride, featuring a special performance by the PNPA Slow Drill Platoon.

Habing Katutubo 4, presented by MA79 by Maila Alog, Head Designer, showcased the incredible talent of indigenous weavers from across the Philippines, with stunning ready-to-wear and contemporary designs incorporating their hand-woven tapestries. The runway displayed the versatility of these textiles, proving their enduring relevance in modern fashion while honoring their cultural origins. The show featured four distinct collections: "Sabernalla Kidswear," "Corditeens Wear," "Cordichic Women's Wear," and "Cordihunk Men's Wear," all designed by Maila Alog. Dinekkan by Julius Lumiqued provided accessories for the "Cordichic Women's Wear" and "Cordihunk Men's Wear" collections. Adding to the showcase of indigenous artistry were "Stylish CordilleraLux" by Amy Balbawang and "Julie's Creations" by Julie Vergara, both featured designers at Habing Katutubo 4. Balbawang presented "The Stylish CordilleraLux Eclectic Aesthetic Pinay 24 Collection," while Vergara showcased "Badu ni Julie," both demonstrating the diverse interpretations and modern applications of traditional weaving.

"Habing Katutubo continues to be a powerful platform for celebrating our indigenous heritage," said Maila Alog, Head Designer and Project Manager. "This year, we're especially thrilled to connect the artistry of weaving with the dedication and discipline embodied by the PNPA, highlighting the importance of preserving our past while building a strong future."

The event highlighted the diverse weaving traditions of different Indigenous Peoples from Northern, Central, and Southern Philippines, each region's unique patterns and techniques contributing to the rich tapestry of Filipino cultural identity. A special highlight of Habing Katutubo 4 was the guest performance by the PNPA Slow Drill Platoon. Their precision and discipline served as a powerful reminder of the institution's commitment to creating future leaders of the country, resonating with the event's message of preserving cultural heritage for generations to come.

The success of the runway presentations was a collaborative effort. The "Sabernalla Kidswear" and "Corditeens Wear" segments featured HMUAs Janice Magbanua, Niel Cruz, Ace Edralin Pingil, Rhayan Amos, Gersica Esiong, Arlen Wayan, Jomar Paneda, and Marah Andres, and models Samantha Loelle Reyes, Jazzy Solis, Bona Stella Rivera, Zeruiah Abishai Sudicalan, Drake Alilao, Centinno Kal-el Ramos, and Zhac Nickholai Lagutan (Kidswear) and Mailan Alog, AJ Salvador, Alexandria Calde, Kristine Dae Ramos, Ranger Buaquen, Rawil Buaquen, Nathaniel Nanglihan, and Gabriel Lagne (Corditeens). Janice Magbanua served as Runway Director for these segments. The "Cordichic Women's Wear" and "Cordihunk Men's Wear" segments shared the same HMUA team and featured models Jasmine Anayasan, Ivee Taruc, LJ Fidel, Marianne Lura, Gail Dasalla, Kairelle Dela Rama, Sheena Umalla, and Paris Khryz Dasalla (Women's) and Kelvin Aguilan, Alvin Katano, Waren Kiganngan II, John Ephraim, Jaymor Chanao, Kim Buaquen, John Rowel Recile, and Mark Tininggal (Men's). Jessie Jeng Panelo served as Runway Director for these segments. Amy Balbawang's "Stylish CordilleraLux" collection featured HMUAs Kristia Tanelon and Jan Danesse Tanelo, and models Eunice Quirimit, Lyka Temblor, Xyza Nicole Aguilar, Paris Khryz Dasalla, Chloe Sabala, Thea Chris, Judy Justo, and Winzel Alylie Sad-ang. Genia Peleo served as Runway Director for this segment. Julie Vergara's "Badu ni Julie" collection featured HMUAs Janice Magbanua, Marah Andres, Niel Cruz, and Ace Edralin Pingil, and models Centinno Kal-el Ramos, Alwod Mishael, Miel Angela Castulo, Chloe Jazette Sta Maria, Chloe Kate Montes, Jazzy Solis, Emhrys Pierre Caras, Zye Kyna Faith Salvador, Shanyl Oyam, and Adriana Mendoza. Juliedan Vergara served as Runway Director for this segment. All runway shows were powered by WILVY Shows Entertainment Production.

Beyond the runway, Habing Katutubo 4 offered attendees the opportunity to engage with the weavers themselves through interactive workshops and demonstrations. These hands-on experiences provided valuable insights into the intricate process of creating traditional textiles, from sourcing natural fibers to the delicate art of weaving, fostering a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication involved.

Habing Katutubo 4 wouldn't be possible without the dedication of its volunteers. "Nothing beats the heart of the volunteers, especially for the yearly supporters of this activity," shared Maila Alog. "It's been four long years, and almost all are still here with us. We also welcome the new faces of our growing community. Thank you for eyeing us and letting us mobilize you with your physical capabilities, talents, and skills." This year's event boasted a dedicated team of 10 production staff, 113 models, 16 photographers and videographers, 9 hair and makeup artists, and 2 collaborating artisans, alongside the invaluable contributions of 26 sponsors and 10 cultural performers. The organizers also expressed their deep gratitude to all the cultural bearers who have shared their knowledge over the past four years. Special thanks were given to designers Juliedan Vergara, Mariz Gumangan Mabalot Bomogao, and Amy Balbawang for their continued support, and to the PNPA Slow Drill Platoon for their perfect performance.

The event also served as a platform for collaboration within the local creative community, bringing together artists, artisans, and event suppliers. Organizers reiterated their commitment to sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that Habing Katutubo 4 contributed to the local economy and supported the preservation of cultural heritage.

Habing Katutubo 4 concluded with enthusiastic applause, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance. The event successfully demonstrated the power of fashion to celebrate culture, connect communities, and empower indigenous artisans, while also highlighting the importance of leadership and national pride. Organizers are already looking forward to Habing Katutubo 5, promising another inspiring celebration of Filipino weaving traditions.