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Published June 9, 2025 5:54pm
Indigenous and traditional handicrafts and artworks created by Filipino artisans and designers across the country took centerstage at Likha 4 at Foro de Intramuros in Manila over the weekend.
According to Vonne Aquino's report in "Saksi" on June 6, the artisanal exhibit was led by First Lady Liza Marcos, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, Trade and Industry Secretary Maria Cristina Roque, and former Housing Secretary Jose Acuzar.
The annual Likha celebrates the rich artistry and cultural heritage of the Philippines by fostering collaboration among designers and artisans, and sharing traditional indigenous knowledge through the promotion of Filipino handicrafts from various regions of the country.
Janeth Hanapi, a weaver of the Jama Mapun indigenous group from Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, was among the artisans who exhibited her handwoven mats at Likha 4. These mats or banig featured designs unique to their indigenous community.
"Isang malaking oportunidad po na dumating po sa buhay naming bilang mgamanlilikha, isa po itong tulong din sa aming karagdagang pangangailangan po," said Janeth.
Siegrid Bangyay, a potter from Sagada, Mountain Province, also showcased her ceramic artworks that reflect the traditions and beliefs of the Igorots.
"I based my inspirations in my pieces on our local symbols, like 'yung Pinagtago for us is a guardian, for Ifugao it's Bulul," said Siegrid.
Per Likha organizer Al Valenciano, they collaborated with various sectors for exhibit and to ensure the crafts are passed down and sustained through the years.
"We try to partner din with fellow artisans, we partner din with designers, we partner din with entrepreneurs who could help them achieve a certain sustainability to make sure that the craft is passed on and will live on through generations," he said.
National Commission for Culture and the Arts executive director Eric Zerrudo also said that Likha has become "an annual pilgrimate site" for creatives and craft-lovers.
Aside from handwoven mats and ceramic art, other handicrafts such as clothing, textiles, and jewelry also featured at Likha 4.
Sparkle artists Althea Ablan, Brent Valdez, and Cheska Fausto attended the event and expressed their support for Filipino products.
"Meron ako nakitang bag made of bamboo siya. Ang ganda niya. Katulad nga ng sabi nila, we support locals 'di ba, kaya as Pinoy, tayo, we support each other," said Althea.
"Kailangan naming gamitin 'yung platform namin para ibahagi namin sa mga Pilipino na meron tayong ganitong ka rich na culture and heritage na pwede nating maipagmalaki sa buong mundo," added Brent.
—CDC, GMA Integrated News
