From inspiring talks and exhibitions to cultural performances and family-friendly activities, Likhang HABI Market Fair 2026 brought together a vibrant community of local and international vendors, textile enthusiasts, artisans, and cultural advocates.
At the heart of the halls, the HABI booth brought together beautiful handwoven textiles from Narda’s Handwoven, pouf seats by Studio Siriusdan and Milvidas, and handmade abaca-cotton weaves and hand-knotted tinagak by the Panganiban Weaving Association in Catanduanes. The association is one of HABI’s flagship community development initiatives, supporting the revival and preservation of traditional abaca weaving.
All items crafted by the Panganiban weavers were available for sale, offering fairgoers an opportunity to support their livelihood and appreciate their craftsmanship. These creations are the fruits of the weavers’ training and workshops, made possible through the collaborative efforts of DOST-PTRI, PSTO Catanduanes V, DTI Catanduanes, PhilFIDA, the Department of Tourism, and the local government unit. Special thanks to TELUS Digital and The Alvarez Foundation for their support in helping make these initiatives possible.
Throughout the three-day fair, HABI Lectures offered insights and new knowledge to fairgoers and textile enthusiasts. Recordings of the lectures are now available on our YouTube channel for those who wish to revisit the sessions or catch up on what they missed
The stage program also featured Usec. Ali Atienza of PhilFIDA, who presented Natural Fiber Link PH on Day 1; Jeannie Laccay of Aruga Handwovens, who shared “Isinay Fabrics: Then and Now” on Day 2; and a presentation by Erick Castelo on Day 3. Adding a hands-on experience to the program, Ginger Roxa-Arzt led a fiber-spinning demonstration on Day 3, giving visitors the opportunity to try the craft themselves.
The fair also introduced TELAserye: HABI Docu Screenings, a three-day program featuring HABI's Threaded Tradition documentaries, selected I-Witness episodes, and films by other organizations. Special talkback sessions with award-winning journalists Mariz Umali and Howie Severino gave audiences a deeper look into the stories behind the documentaries, highlighting the people, craftsmanship, and traditions that shape our textile heritage.
The fair also welcomed the homecoming exhibition of Andrea “Tonee” Garcia’s Sari-Sari, following its presentation at this year’s HABI General Assembly while she was a student at Central Saint Martins. It was a colorful textile exploration of Southeast Asian markets and the sachet economy.
On the maion stage, Mahalina Foundation showcased its advocacy through a booth and a Day 2 stage talk titled “Between Land and Loom.”
The launch of ABACA: The Philippine Fiber and Textile by Dr. Norma Absing Respicio also marked a special occasion, followed by a book-signing session.
Celebrating the artistry of Filipino weavers, the awarding ceremonies for the 9th Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition and the 5th Eloisa Hizon Gomez Abaca Weaving Competition took place on Days 2 and 3, respectively.
Fairgoers also had the opportunity to view all entries to the weaving competitions, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship, creativity, and artistry of Filipino weavers.
The fair also featured FILIPINIANA, an exhibition presented by Benilde Fashion Museum, showcasing creations by renowned Filipino fashion designers Auggie Cordero, Aureo Alonzo, Ben Farrales, and Pitoy Moreno. Featuring garments made with Philippine textiles, the exhibition celebrated the versatility of locally made fabrics and the ways these designers expressed Filipino identity through fashion.
Families also had plenty to enjoy, with Museo Pambata hosting a booth featuring mini activities for children and offering free sorbetes and taho on opening day.
Of course, no fair experience is complete without good food! The Plaza served a selection of Filipino dishes alongside its famous lechon, giving visitors even more reasons to linger and enjoy the festivities.
Adding rhythm and energy to the fair were performances by Drum Circle, GANAP, and Acapellago.
With its diverse exhibitors, engaging talks, meaningful cultural exchanges, and lively activities, Likhang HABI Market Fair 2026 celebrated the people, traditions, and creativity that make Philippine textiles Worth Every Thread.
