The Department of Science and Technology-CAR as chair of the Cordillera Weaving Industry Council (CWIC), partnered with the DOST- Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI), SM City Baguio, and various regional fashion designers for the Threads of Innovation: Cordillera’s Modern Textile Fashion Show today, July 18, 2024 at the SM Baguio Atrium. The show is the culminating activity for the two-day celebration of the 3rd Cordillera Weaving Industry Summit (CWIS) and 3rd Philippine Handloom Weaving Conference (PHWC).
The fashion show featured the works of esteemed local fashion designers and brands: Juliene Paran, Tapis and Baag, Tribo Estilo, and the DOST-PTRI Philippine Tropical Fabrics Uniform Project.
Juliene Paran is a Cordilleran fashion designer who traces her roots to Benguet and Mountain Province. She launched her own clothing line after graduating from the Fashion Institute of Design and Arts in Cebu on April 13, 2013. Ms. Paran incorporates indigenous fabrics in her designs, extensively made by Cordilleran women, producing remarkable pieces in her collections that showcase her roots and deep appreciation for the Cordilleran tradition. Her mission extends beyond her brand; she is committed to support Cordilleran weavers and promote local culture and tradition with the vision of bringing the region’s artistry in the international fashion industry.
Tapis and Baag, led by its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ms. Ginalyn Brown-Tayag, is a brand dedicated to merging tradition with contemporary fashion. It aims to empower local weavers by amplifying their artistry with modern fashion to suit a global audience
Tribo Estilo is a brand that focuses on creating modern pieces using traditionally crafted, handwoven, and locally produced fabrics. They aim to reinvent local and international fashion trends by featuring Filipino traditional weaving techniques with a contemporary twist. Tribo Stilo specializes in creating classic and neo-ethnic women’s blazers or tops, polo shirts, gowns, coats or suits, barongs, and others.
Meanwhile, the DOST-PTRI showcased textiles under the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Uniform Project (PTFUP), demonstrating that Filipino fabrics and artistry can be used in creating corporate attire that are comfortable and fashionable. The PTFUP is a result of Republic Act No. 9242 or Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law, which mandates the use of indigenous fabrics for the uniforms of government personnel. Through this project, DOST-PTRI has collaborated with notable Filipino fashion designers such as JC Buendia for the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Albert Andrada for the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Pablo Cabahug for the House of Representatives, and Kingsmen for DOST.
Overall,
the two-day activity showed the shared commitment of designers, weavers,
academe, and government in promoting and preserving the rich Cordilleran
heritage.
In his closing
message, Atty. Roland P. Calde, Regional Director of NCIP-CAR and a member of
CWIC said that only traditional attires have specific rules, guidelines, and
prohibitions in CAR. Modern designs are fully supported since they help in
highlighting the beauty and rich heritage of the region. He also stressed the
importance of actively supporting contemporary designers and weavers in
showcasing the vibrant Cordilleran heritage to a global audience.
“We may
have different contemporary patterns, but it all speaks of the same- it's all
about the rich culture of the Cordillera,” Atty. Calde added. He also extended
his appreciation for the heartfelt support and collaboration demonstrated by
all stakeholders, including government agencies, academe, media, and weavers as
well as SM City Baguio's constant support in promoting local entrepreneurship
and creativity in the region. //
It's exciting to see how Cordillera weaving is being reimagined for modern fashion! The designers have successfully blended traditional techniques with contemporary styles, creating pieces that are both beautiful and wearable. This is a great way to introduce Cordillera culture to a wider audience.
ReplyDelete