The Likhang Habi Market Fair is set to expand its advocacy in promoting Philippine textiles through a series of lectures with established and emerging weavers and designers, including knitwear designer Lulu Tan-Gan.
The fair, which was organized by the HABI: The Philippine Textile Council, would hold “Habi Lectures,” from October 10 to 12 at Space One Ayala in Makati City.
The HABI: The Philippine Textile Council, established in 2009, is a non-governmental organization that preserves the cultural identity of indigenous textiles, while also advancing the industry.
The market fair, with the theme “Sining ng Tela: The Art and Legacy of Filipino Weaving,” moved to a bigger venue this year to accommodate more vendors and guests.
Meanwhile, HABI president Mia Villanueva said that conducting lectures would expand the weavers’ knowledge of the textile industry, leading to its appreciation, preservation, and development.
“The HABI Lectures are an opportunity to share across the spectrum of the weaving community’s stakeholders in a manner that is personal and practical,” Villanueva said.
“For three days, we will be gathering men and women who have made remarkable contributions to the industry, who will share useful information to create a toolkit of experiences that everyone can tap, especially in the face of challenges,” she added.
Marking its inception, the market fair invited entrepreneurs, weavers, artisans, and fashion designers to discuss their journey using Philippine textiles.
Young individuals would share their insights in promoting the use of Filipino textiles in fashion during the “In The Realm of Textiles: Young Voices Advocating Heritage in Fashion” lecture on October 10.
Stephanie Diputado and Joy Geocado, the founders of Namnama Clothing, and Catherine Diquit from Likhang Maragondon would share their experiences as young entrepreneurs in building their own brand in this industry.
The discussion by Steffi Cua from Idyllic Summers would focus on the “true cost” of fashion.
Textile industry
Meanwhile, the lecture titled “In The Realm of Textile: The Journey of the Entrepreneur in the Handwoven Textile Industry” on the second day will focus on the experiences of entrepreneurs in the handwoven textile industry.
Tan-Gan, co-founder of the HABI Council and dubbed the “Queen of Knits,” will share her experiences in crafting fashion.
The talks with Filip + Inna’s Len Cabili and Aklan Piña Artisans Association Chairman Carlo Eliserio will center on strategies for empowering culture and heritage through textiles.
For the final day of the lecture series on October 12, “In The Realm of Textiles: Application of Handwoven Textiles Outside of Fashion” will focus on integrating contemporary concepts into handwoven crafts.
The discussions will feature insights and experiences from ZACARIAS1925 Creative Director Rita Nazareno, ASEAN Handicraft Promotion and Development Association President Edric Ong, and lifestyle consultant Tanya Fricke.
According to Villanueva, the lectures on the textile industry serve as a bridge between weavers and the public, fostering a deeper understanding of weaving culture.
“When you inform the public of the reasons why the weavers have a certain pattern, why they stick to these colors, why the textile can’t be used for some applications… when they are educated, it becomes easier,” she said.
A total of 85 exhibitors from various regions will showcase their products and crafts at the 15th Likhang Habi Market Fair.
This year marks the first time that government agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute and the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority will have their own stalls at the fair, offering assistance and initiating discussions with weavers, according to Villanueva.
The fair has also partnered with the Mahalina Foundation.
Entries for the 8th Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition and the 4th Eloisa Hizon Gomez Abaca Weaving Competition will be on display.
Regional delicacies and culinary offerings from partnered food outlets will also be featured, including Café Fleur by Chef Sau del Rosario, a renowned culinary figure celebrated for promoting contemporary Kapampangan dishes.