Philippines Weaving Town Attracts Youth
The weaving town of Bangar in La Union is attracting both shoppers and young artisans, blending centuries-old skills with modern enterprise. The resurgence of interest among youth is revitalizing local economies and ensuring that heritage crafts remain relevant in the digital age.
The traditional "inabel" weaving of Bangar, La Union, has a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonial era, with its durable handwoven cloth once used as boat sails. Today, this centuries-old craft, produced on traditional wooden looms or "tillars," is facing a critical juncture with an aging artisan population. Of the approximately 600 weavers in the town, it's estimated that 20% to 30% are elderly. To ensure the tradition's survival, the provincial government and local businesses have initiated programs to engage younger generations. In 2024, the Abel Academy was launched in partnership with Nogueras Weaving, offering a three-day intensive training program for aspiring weavers. This initiative led to the formation of the Young Loomweavers Association of Bangar (YLAB). YLAB, led by president Phil Marie Lucina, is focused on innovation and moving beyond conventional products like blankets and pillowcases. The association aims to create modern apparel and accessories such as hats, headbands, and dresses, catering to a contemporary market. This push for new designs is a direct effort to keep the craft relevant and economically viable for younger artisans. The local government is also investing in the industry's infrastructure to boost production and market access. In December 2025, a Phase 2 Shared Service Facility (SSF) was launched, a project amounting to over P2.5 million, funded by the Department of Trade and Industry and the local government. This facility is expected to directly support over 629 active weavers and nine micro, small, and medium enterprises. To protect the authenticity and brand identity of their unique products, the weavers and local government have successfully registered "Abel Bangar" as a collective mark with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. This legal protection is a crucial step in safeguarding the weavers' heritage and ensuring they receive proper recognition and economic benefits for their craft. The push to revitalize inabel weaving comes as La Union experiences a tourism boom, with tourism revenue surpassing P1 billion in 2024. This growing influx of visitors presents a significant market for local artisans, creating opportunities to showcase and sell their traditional yet innovative handwoven products.
