The Philippines’ piña handloom weaving has recently gained international recognition as it has been enrolled on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) list of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) of humanity. This prestigious acknowledgement marks the country’s sixth element inscribed in the Lists of Intangible Cultural Heritage, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
Among the other elements already recognized by UNESCO are the Hudhud chants of the Ifugao (2008), the Darangen epic of the Manarano people of Lake Lanao (2008), the Tugging rituals and games (2015), the Buklog-thanksgiving ritual system of the Subanen (2019), and the School of Living Traditions (2021).
The Philippines takes immense pride in being the sole producer of piña cloth on a large scale worldwide. Piña textiles, crafted from pineapple fibers, are an integral part of the diverse traditional weaving practices in the country. These textiles hold great significance as national cultural symbols, representing ingenuity, craftsmanship, social cohesiveness, and shared values within our communities, as stated by Victorino Manalo, Chairman of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
Manalo further expressed his gratitude for this recognition, emphasizing the importance of preserving and safeguarding the heritage of piña handloom weaving. He stated, “We wholeheartedly express our gratitude for this recognition, which inspires us to safeguard their heritage and affirms the importance of our contribution to the richness of human creativity.”
The inclusion of piña handloom weaving in the UNESCO ICH list of humanity occurred during the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of ICH in Kasane, Botswana.
Piña handloom weaving is primarily practiced in Aklan province, located in Panay Island, where it originated. The process involves the farming of pineapple plants, locally known as “pinya Bisaya” (Ananas comosus), which serve as the main source of piña fiber. The cultivation of these plants takes place in 15 municipalities, including Altavas, Balete, Banga, Batan, Buruanga, Kalibo, Lezo, Libacao, Madalag, Makato, Malay, Malinao, Nabas, Numancia, and Tangalan.
The knowledge and skills of piña handloom weaving have been passed down through generations, with weavers from neighboring provinces of Antique and Capiz in Panay Island, Leyte, Camarines Sur, and Palawan learning from the experienced weavers. This transmission of knowledge primarily occurs within families, as elders teach the younger members the art of handloom weaving, as mentioned by the DFA.
The recognition of piña handloom weaving in the UNESCO ICH list was warmly welcomed by Junever Mahilum-West, the Philippine Ambassador to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. This recognition not only highlights the exceptional craftsmanship of Filipino artisans but also serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage that the Philippines proudly possesses.
With its enrollment in the UNESCO ICH list, piña handloom weaving has gained global recognition, ensuring its preservation for future generations. This accolade not only celebrates the artistry and cultural significance of piña cloth but also reinforces the Philippines’ contribution to the world’s cultural diversity and creativity.
Source: The Manila Times
