Philippine filigree, indigenous fabrics featured in international bazaar

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino designers Oskar Atendido and Sophia Manimbo placed the  Philippine filigree craft and indigenous fabrics under spotlight during the 1st ASEAN International Bazaar of the ASEAN Women’s Circle of Los Angeles (AWCLA).

According to a Department of Foreign Affairs statement, jewelry designer Atendido gave a lecture about Philippine filigree craft, which has always been among his interest. Filigree, an ornamental work of fine wire formed into delicate tracery, found its way to the Philippines through schools with Belgian missionaries. Atendido considers the craft worth saving as it is slowly disappearing in Philippine culture.

On the other hand, Sophia Manimbo, daughter of Cora Manimbo, who is known in the Philippines for her dresses made from various Philippine fabrics, talked about Philippine indigenous fabrics such as abel iloco, piña, t’nalak and tapis. Manimbo described each fabric, including where they were sourced in the Philippines.

Fine handcrafted filigree jewelry made of silver, copper and gold; traditional ternos and blouses made with indigenous Philippines fabric were also put in display on the bazaar.

The event held at the Starview Room of the Sheraton Universal Hotel showcased artifacts from ASEAN countries, cultural performances and many more.