By: Quer Lim
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| PHOTO: AKEANON GUID RA! | Haboe Balete 2022 Livestream |
Veering the spotlight towards the tropical weaving crafts industry, the Municipality of Balete joined the nation in celebrating the “Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month”, giving recognition to their local tropical weavers who have had a great contribution in producing quality products that showcase the talents and roots of Baleten-ons through Haboe Balete 2022.
As an annual celebration, Haboe Balete Month involved various events and activities that follows:
An Outreach Program by the Balete LGU which took place last Jan. 29 visited and handed out grocery packs for the artisans of the piña weaving industry in Barangay Cortes and Barangay Fulgencio in Balete.
Furthermore, Raquel's Pina Cloth collaborated with various creative individuals including stylist Mel Constantino to carry out a small runway show at Raquel’s Piña Weaving Center, showcasing handwoven piña pieces from Raquel's Piña Cloth Products.
EB Gen Z models wore Kimono-inspired garments, shawls, vesta, blazers, wrap-dresses, and gowns which were personally picked by Mel Constantino.
Raquel Eliserio, known to be chairwoman of Aklanon Piña Fiber Producers Association, and the owner of Raquel's Piña Cloth Products, was also recognized for being awarded the Global Eco Artisan Award 2021. A design meant to be part of a collection, turned into an award-winning creation by Eliserio.
Meanwhile, a documentary on Piña Weaving was also presented during the celebration's live stream wherein the processes of Piña Cloth Products making were shown.
Eliserio, along with Balete Municipal Mayor Dexter Calizo, Balete Municipal Vice Mayor Patrick Lachica, and other personalities then discussed the history and journey of the tropical weaving crafts industry in the municipality.
This year's celebration is known to be the second Haboe Balete Month since it started out last 2021.