Women Weavers

This is Glenda Castillanes. She was the star of the last leg of Abel Ilokana, an event that celebrated women weavers from Ilocos Sur, Ilocor Norte, La Union, and Abra (north of the Philippines) in celebration of Women's Month. Glenda represented Abra.

She gave a lecture and demonstration on weaving using the traditional wooden Tilar.

Ate Glenda was so nice enough to answer all of the questions I endlessly threw at her. Ate Glenda learned how to weave from his mother who also got it from her mother. It has been a tradition to pass on this talent and source of income from one generation to another. This weaving has supported kids to school.

She said it usually takes 8 hours to produce a 7-yard. This artwork whose intricate details show how complicated the process is and how one mistake can affect the pattern pre-set for each design. It tells you how the design seems to be innately embedded into the heart and mind of the weaver and how they know it like the back of their hands.

I did not leave without showing support in my own little way. I bought a few rolls that I would like to turn into pillow cases for my 70's-themed red bedroom.

It is my wish that these weavers be given enough support and recognition. They not only need it to survive but they are also excellent vessels of our roots as Filipinos