LAGAWE, Ifugao – With the aim of promoting a sustainable Ifugao weaving industry, the provincial government of Ifugao, Department of Trade and Industry-Ifugao, and Sangguniang Kabataan-Ifugao collaborated with seven Ifugao fashion houses for the holding of ethnic fashion show dubbed “Layag ng Habi.”
Recently held at the Don Bosco Gymnasium in this capital town, the fashion show showcased different collections of casual and formal ethnic designs from Ifugao fashion houses Etniq Filosofi, Kenro, Abella’s House of Fashion, Oskhie, Tribo Estilo, Jiya Gowns, and Ifugao Nation.
Inabol or woven fabrics done traditionally come in different colors and styles and offer meaningful symbols and patterns which are considered vital in every Ifugao’s way of life.
“We are about to witness an unfolding of a gem, the jewel of our unique culture, entering the fashion world,” said DTI Provincial Director Lino Cuhingan.
He said the event aimed to sell the designs and weaves that emanate from the rich and unique culture of Ifugao and cope with the current trend and fast-changing fashion.
He said the appreciation and approval of the audience will become the steering work of the weaving industry to go out and promote their work in the commercial centers in the country and the world.
With this, it could create more job opportunities and livelihoods in the province.
Renowned ethnic fashion designers including Victor Baguilat of Kandama Collective and Val Famorca also attended event and shared their success stories and experiences in the fashion industry.
Baguilat designs were worn by celebrities like Marian Rivera, Pia Wurtzbach, Lea Salonga, Maine Mendoza, and Pokwang while Famorca’s clients come from different parts of the world. They encouraged the participants to pursue their passion and dreams.
Save the Ifugao Terraces Movement Chief Operations Officer Marlon Martin also shared his expertise in Ifugao weaving and textile.
Cuhingan also shared the projects of the provincial government to help produce the raw materials, a perennial problem needed in the weaving industry, such as planting the high-yielding cotton variety in the different municipalities of Ifugao. – Florida B. Robles
