About – Hibla

HIBLA is a capstone project that seeks to cultivate an interest in Inabel textiles, particularly as a part of contemporary fashion, through its video feature series and lookbook.

Mission

To celebrate and help preserve the tradition of Inabel weaving, through showcasing its beauty, history, and process.

Vision

To make Inabel a part of Filipino contemporary fashion.

Our Purpose

Referred to as “a piece of living history”, Inabel is a traditional craft vital to the lifestyle and income of many from the Ilocos region. But with modernization in the fashion industry, Inabel faces dwindling demand and support. HIBLA ultimately aims to contribute to the preservation of Inabel weaving by celebrating the craft and its community of weavers.

Seasoned Weaver

• 65 years old
• Started weaving at Pinili in 2016

Estrella Lacuesta

Seasoned Weaver

• 63 years old
• Learned how to weave at 16
• Started weaving at Pinili after the pandemic

Mary Luz Valera

Manlilikha ng Bayan

• 100 years old
• Learned how to weave at 15
• Renowned in the country as a master weaver of Inabel.

MB Magdalena Gamayo

Seasoned Weaver

• 43 years old
• Started weaving at Pinili in 2014

Jonalyn Gampong

Seasoned Weaver

• 66 years old
• Learned how to weave at 15

Erlinda Gampong

Generations of Weavers

HIBLA heard from both seasoned weavers and trainees about their journey with Inabel and the Pinili Weaving Center for a better understanding of the traditional craft and its current status. We owe much to them as the backbones of the Inabel industry who ensure the craft not only survives but also flourishes.

Designers & Partners

Presenting the creative minds and devoted partners who bring the timeless beauty of Inabel to life through their artistry and design.

Tela de Iloko

Tela de Iloko offers modern style bags and wallets made with Inabel.

Learn More!

Enable the Brand

Enabling local small-batch makers & artisans in the Philippines through eco-conscious, slow fashion that celebrates Filipino culture.

Learn More!

Para Sa Diwà

Eccentric goods, in small batches. From the Philippines to the world.

Learn More!

Marjorie Castillio

An aspiring fashion designer with a vision to create traditional Filipino clothing for casual everyday pieces.

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Mamser

A Multimedia Arts student from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde events, Mamser is a drag queen with a distinct alternative fashion style, who also uses their platform to highlight LGBTQ+ issues. —pangalan na sinisigaw ng masa.

Learn More!

Meet the Team

Get to know the passionate individuals behind our vision.

Antoinette Sy

Layout Artist, Photographer

Through colors, patterns, and layouts, I bring the essence of Inabel to every visual I create. My work bridges the traditional and the modern to leave a lasting impression.

Instagram

Julia Encarnacion

Copywriter, Layout Artist

With a deep love for culture and creativity, I craft narratives that evoke emotions and inspire action. Every sentence I write is a thread that weaves the tale of Inabel’s beauty and significance.

Instagram

Shane Picardal

Video Editor, Copywriter

I specialize in enhancing digital content to ensure it speaks clearly and captivatingly to audiences. My mission is to bring the story of Inabel to life, one frame at a time.

Instagram

Kerby Cruz

Web Designer, Layout Artist

I see websites as living, breathing entities that connect people to stories and products. My role is to make the Hibla platform a seamless journey that honors Inabel’s artistry.

Instagram

Sophia Sunga

Video Producer and Editor

Editing is my art, where I blend emotion and narrative to showcase the soul of Inabel. Each cut and transition I make reflects the timeless rhythm of the craft.

Instagram

Behind the Scenes