After Hinablon, an exhibit on Philippine contemporary textiles, which was held last month at the Nature’s Village Resort in Bacolod City, the Department of Tourism-Region VI (DOT-6) is encouraging the promotion of traditional weaving techniques.

“DOT-6 intends to support the weaving industry in Negros Occidental by partnering and empowering the local government, private sector, and, most especially, weaving associations in the countryside,” said DOT-6 director, Atty. Helen J. Catalbas. “Our agency will be providing necessary financial and technical support in training young weavers, especially women and indigenous groups.”

“We should be proud of our own local products and we can show this by wearing clothes made from locally woven textiles,” she added.

Meanwhile, it was earlier reported, as part of their National Women’s Month observance, the National Museum of the Philippines will be hosting a free weaving demonstration and lectures on March 23 and 24 at the National Museum Western Visayas Regional Museum and Satellite Office, located at the Iloilo Capitol Compound along Bonifacio Drive in Iloilo City.

The event, which seeks to raise awareness of issues surrounding gender roles, will feature traditional weaving techniques, such as hablon, which can be dated back to the 1800s./WDJ