Inabel weaving Tradition with Magdalena Gamayo – The Eternal Weave

January 22, 2024

In the lush landscapes of northern Luzon, the rich tapestry of culture and tradition is interwoven with every thread of inabel fabric. At the heart of this age-old craft stands a figure as enduring as the textiles she creates – Magdalena Gamayo, fondly known as Lola Dalen. As she approaches her 100th birthday on August 13, her unwavering dedication to the art of inabel weaving remains a vibrant thread in the cultural fabric of the Philippines.

Lola Dalen is not just a master weaver; she is an embodiment of a living tradition, a guardian of a craft that has been the pride of the Ilokano people for generations. Her skilled hands, which have turned countless threads into exquisite inabel textiles, now guide the next generation at the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) Cultural Center nestled in the quaint village of Lumbaan-Bicbica in Pinili town.

The centenarian weaver’s passion transcends the loom – it is her life’s mission to ensure that the art of inabel weaving does not fade into the annals of history. As one of the Philippines’ National Living Treasures, Lola Dalen sees it as an honor to witness young minds embracing the meticulous craft of inabel weaving, ensuring that the legacy endures.

In a grand tribute to Gamayo’s centennial milestone, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in collaboration with local authorities and the Department of Education, has rolled out a unique opportunity. They invite the youth, particularly those at the high school level, to immerse themselves in the rich tradition of inabel weaving under the tutelage of the master herself.

Dr. Edwin Antonio, a luminary at the NCCA and the driving force behind the abel weaving training program, expressed his vision for the initiative. “We are gradually weaving a future where the youth can carry forward our cultural heritage. By investing in their training, we ensure that the art of inabel weaving continues to flourish,” he remarked.

The ambitious goal is to enroll at least 100 aspiring weavers in both the foundational and advanced facets of this intricate craft. The journey begins in January and weaves through August, with the initial cohort of 16 students from Sacritan Integrated School-Pinili already deep in their exploration of the loom’s secrets.

The path to mastering inabel is as intricate as the patterns that emerge from the loom. It is a dance of preparation, from the meticulous selection and treatment of cotton threads to their harmonious arrangement on the loom, setting the stage for the creation of a masterpiece.

Every piece of inabel fabric is a testament to the weaver’s patience and artistry, a narrative woven into the very fabric of the community. It’s not merely a textile; it’s a tapestry of stories, an heirloom that carries the essence of generations.

As the trainees complete their 80-hour immersion in this venerable craft, they are not just learning a skill; they are becoming custodians of a legacy. Their final creations, transformed into traditional sablay or banda, will be symbols of their journey, celebrated with certificates from the NCCA in a fitting culmination of their dedication.

Beyond the borders of Ilocos Norte, the invitation extends to all who wish to partake in this cultural odyssey. The GAMABA center opens its doors every weekend, welcoming anyone eager to be part of this enduring tradition. It’s a chance to not just learn a skill but to weave oneself into the very fabric of a culture that has stood the test of time.

As we look ahead, the narrative of the inabel, with its complex patterns and vibrant threads, continues to evolve. With each passing year and each new set of hands that master the loom, the tradition of inabel weaving is not just preserved; it’s invigorated, ensuring that the legacy of Lola Dalen and the rich tapestry of Ilokano culture continue to flourish for generations to come.

For additional information and further reading, refer to the original article here.