Through three days of discussions, the HABI Lectures at the Likhang HABI Market Fair 2026 brought together educators, designers, conservators, entrepreneurs, and advocates to explore the importance of textiles, the preservation of textile heritage, and the opportunities for building sustainable businesses rooted in Filipino craftsmanship.
With topics ranging from textile appreciation and collection conservation to entrepreneurial strategies, the lectures highlighted how traditional knowledge and material innovation can continue to shape the future of the Philippine textile and design industries.
Day 1: The Importance and Relevance of Textiles
The 1st day of the HABI Lectures explored the significance of textiles in culture, design, and contemporary life, emphasizing their continued relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Ms. Mitzi Aguilar-Reyes, University of the Philippines professor and former dean of the College of Fine Arts, opened the discussions with “Why Textiles Matter,” examining the value of textiles beyond their practical uses and their place in art, culture, and everyday life.
Mr. Michael Claparols, co-founder of Creative Definitions and LAKAT Sustainables, followed with “LAKAT: A Filipino Design System Turning Discarded Pineapple Leaves, Local Craft, and Material Innovation into Everyday Footwear.” His presentation highlighted how locally available materials, traditional craftsmanship, and design innovation can come together to create products with a more sustainable approach. LAKAT recently received the Designs for a Sustainable Future distinction at the Seoul Design Awards 2026.
Cecilia Martinez-Miranda and Kylie Misa, founders of Isla-tek, presented “Sinulid Hindi Sinayang,” sharing perspectives on making the most of materials and exploring the possibilities of textile reuse and innovation.
The Day 1 lectures were moderated by Ms. Wilma Huang.
Day 2: Preserving and Curating a Textile Collection
The 2nd day focused on the knowledge and practices needed to care for, document, and preserve textile collections for future generations. The sessions underscored the importance of conservation, collection management, and storytelling in keeping textile heritage alive.
Engr. Orlando Abinion, conservator, discussed “Caring for and Maintaining Textiles,” offering insights into the proper care and maintenance of textile pieces to help preserve their condition and longevity.
Maryln Guiterrez and Yvonne Tabanao of the Benilde Fashion Museum presented “Collection Management and Conservation,” exploring the work involved in organizing, documenting, and safeguarding collections.
Corazon Alvina, director and curator of Museo ng Kaalamang Katutubo (MuskKat) and HABI vice president, shared her insights on documenting textile knowledge through writing in “Weaving Words.” Her session highlighted the role of books and written narratives in recording the stories, traditions, and cultural significance woven into textiles.
Dinny Jusuf, founder of Torajamelo, closed the day's presentations with “Untannun Kameloan,” or “Weaving Compassion” in English. Her topic brought attention to the human connections and values that can be carried through weaving and textile-based livelihoods.
The moderator for Day 2 was Ms. Jane Kingsu-Cheng.
Day 3: How to Be an Entrepreneur
The final day turned to the business side of the textile and design industries, with discussions on creative practice, heritage-based enterprises, branding, and the challenges of building a sustainable business.
Textile designer Andrea “Tonee” Garcia began with a presentation on “Next Gen: Contemporary Filipino Textile Design,” sharing her creative work and the ideas behind the collection.
Lulu Tan-Gan, designer and HABI director, followed with “What's Next: Safeguarding Heritage, Sustaining and Scaling Artisanal Fashion.” Her session explored the importance of protecting traditional craftsmanship while finding ways to sustain and grow artisanal fashion businesses in a changing market.
Eleanor Modesto, marketing and branding consultant at Barong Batik Inc., concluded the series with “Stop Competing with Fast, Make SLOW Desirable.” Her discussion addressed the challenge of positioning slow fashion in a market dominated by speed and mass production, emphasizing the importance of making thoughtful, craft-driven products appealing and relevant to consumers.
The Day 3 discussions were moderated by Ms. Tamara Bañez.
Missed the lectures or want to revisit the discussions? Recordings of all HABI Lectures sessions are now available on our YouTube channel! Catch up on the talks and continue exploring the ideas and insights shared by this year's speakers.
