HABLON: A HERITAGE CRAFT
Hablon refers to the hand woven textile, made of jusi (banana fiber), piña (pineapple fiber), locally grown silk threads, cotton, rayon and other indigenous materials that creates an attractive textile of emerald, lavender, pink, tangerine, and crimson colors. Traditionally known for products such as the multi-colored, checkered patadyong skirt, bandanas, and household items (mosquito nets, blankets, table runners, etc.), Hablon fabric is emerging into a versatile and unique textile, currently making waves in the Philippine and international haute couture.
Hablon also shows great potentials in the global market for textiles, next to the old-time favorite, piña and jusi. The indigenous fabric formerly used for ceremonial occasions is taking a new form. Well, the one from Iloilo, at least.
For the province of Iloilo, hablon-weaving remains a cottage industry. The art of weaving is passed on from one generation to another. For some province, loom weaving is their source of livelihood. They were able to send their children to school and finish a bachelor's degree because of loom weaving.
Along with the government's efforts to upgrade the quality of the handloom fabric is the call for a new image to distinguish it from all the rest.
Hablon is, to few of us who know, more than just an indigenous fabric of Iloilo. The joy of seeing it transformed becomes a greater delight. We appreciate the efforts of our local weavers in preserving the craft and for remaining devoted to it; our local government agencies for continuously backing-up trainings to upgrade and promote it; and the special touch of our Ilonggo designers in coming up with innovative fashion pieces.
And to those who believe in the beauty of hablon, in your patience and support lies its success and survival.
Hablon also shows great potentials in the global market for textiles, next to the old-time favorite, piña and jusi. The indigenous fabric formerly used for ceremonial occasions is taking a new form. Well, the one from Iloilo, at least.
For the province of Iloilo, hablon-weaving remains a cottage industry. The art of weaving is passed on from one generation to another. For some province, loom weaving is their source of livelihood. They were able to send their children to school and finish a bachelor's degree because of loom weaving.
Along with the government's efforts to upgrade the quality of the handloom fabric is the call for a new image to distinguish it from all the rest.
Hablon is, to few of us who know, more than just an indigenous fabric of Iloilo. The joy of seeing it transformed becomes a greater delight. We appreciate the efforts of our local weavers in preserving the craft and for remaining devoted to it; our local government agencies for continuously backing-up trainings to upgrade and promote it; and the special touch of our Ilonggo designers in coming up with innovative fashion pieces.
And to those who believe in the beauty of hablon, in your patience and support lies its success and survival.