PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — On November 7, 2024, the Philippines launched the “HabiI: Discovering Possibilities for Philippine Fibers” exhibit at Thomas Jefferson University to showcase Philippine fibers and their unique applications in fashion, design, and industry. The exhibit is a collective effort among the Department of Trade and Industry-Philippine Trade and Investment Center (DTI-PTIC) in New York, the Philippine Consulate General in New York, the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), and Thomas Jefferson University. Supported by the DTI’s Malikhaing Pinoy Program, the Habi features fibers such as “abaca” or Manila hemp, “piña” or pineapple fiber, and bamboo.
Indigenous communities and artisans across the Philippines, including T’nalak, Piña Seda, Kantarines, Pinilian, Yakan, Hablon, and Pigi, crafted handwoven textiles from these fibers. Handwoven fabrics, including T’nalak, Piña seda, Kantarines, Pinilian, Kankanaey, Hablon, Pigi, and others, crafted by Indigenous communities and local artisans from various regions in the Philippines, are on display at Hayward Hall. QR codes accompany each textile, allowing visitors to explore the unique origins and cultural significance of each weaving tradition.
(Photos by PTIC-NY) Produced primarily by women-led micro and small enterprises, these weaves reflect cultural diversity, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Filipino weaving communitie.