The trade show opens lucrative opportunities for the weavers, some of whom have been contracted to supply materials to prominent fashion designers, bag manufacturers, and gift and novelty shops. Beatriz Accessories -Members of the younger generation are also enticed to stay and engage in the old tradition of weaving. Finally, a cultural heritage is saved from extinction and the economies of these communities are given a tremendous boost. The event is sponsored by the Ayala Group and Philippine Airlines.

Habi promotes the raise of the country’s indigenous weavers from places as diverse as Kalinga, Ifugao, Mindoro and Basilan. They are inspired to use natural fabrics to improve quality, increase the value of their works, lower their carbon footprint and enhance the sustainability of their livelihood. The fair offers weavers the opportunity to tap Metro Manila’s consumer market by giving them free space in the show. It also allows them to deal directly with wholesale buyers, foreign buyers and stores.

Habi cofounder Maribel Ongpin revealed that more than 80 exhibitors will take part in the event, making it Habi’s biggest trade fair to date. For the first time, the show will include textile exhibitors from the Asean region, the weaving communities of Brunei, Indonesia, Myanmar, Malaysia and Vietnam. Habi is focusing on products made of natural fabrics, and will include the colorful merchandise of established brands. To entice shoppers are fashionable bags adorned with cloth made by the Yakans of Basilan.

Ongpin commented that, “This way, the middlemen, who had been buying the products from them at lower rates and selling them at much higher prices, are eliminated.”

Organized by Habi The Philippine Textile Council, a nonprofit organization, the fair is designed to showcase the artistry of the country’s indigenous weavers. The finest in Philippine-made textile products take center stage at “Woven Voyages: 8th Likhang Habi Textile Fair 2018,” to be held at the Activity Area of Glorietta Mall in Ayala Center, Makati, on Oct. 12-14 which is open to the public.