HALONG: Weaving the Journey of Patadyong and Panubok in Iloilo is an exhibition and workshop presented under the UP Diliman Culture Bearers-in-Residence Program, running from November 13 to 22 at the UP Fine Arts Gallery (Parola), Arts & Design West Hall, College of Fine Arts, University of the Philippines Diliman.
Members of HABI: The Philippine Textile Council attended the opening reception, with images shared by council member Helen Alegre, capturing the spirit of collaboration between master artisans and the academic community.
A Celebration of Textile Heritage
Developed in close collaboration with two communities of makers, HALONG features the work of traditional weavers Constantia F. Atijon and Criselda Fagarita, alongside panubok embroidery artisans Rowena Caballero Rafil and Rita Caballero. Together, they bring forward the rich heritage of patadyong weaving from Miag-ao and panubok embroidery from Calinog, two pillars of Iloilo’s centuries-old textile traditions.
More than a display of beautiful craft, HALONG is conceived as an exhibition, residency, and educational project—one that encourages deeper appreciation and understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems through the lens of contemporary design.
The initiative invites the younger generation to engage with traditional patterns, motifs, and weaving techniques by presenting new works alongside heritage textiles. The exhibition includes Filipiniana pieces created by noted designers:
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PJ Arañador
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Kitty Caragay
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Twinkle Ferraren
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Joy Ilagan
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Skeeter Labastilla-Turgut
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Jojie Lloren
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Basil Malicsi
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Lito Perez
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Pidge Reyes
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Riza Romero
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Ditta Sandico
with a special contribution by Adora de Vera.
HALONG is the result of a collaborative effort within the UP College of Fine Arts. The project is initiated by former CFA Dean Prof. Mitzi Marie Aguilar-Reyes, Professor Emeritus Dr. Norma Respicio, Asst. Prof. Lisa Ito-Tapang, and Ms. Poeleen Alvarez, with support from Angela Dapilaga and Marize Rullan.
By bringing master weavers into the academic space, HALONG creates space for cultural transmission, ensuring that the artistry and knowledge embedded in Iloilo’s textiles continue to evolve while remaining rooted in community wisdom.
