Renee Salud's 'love letter to Mindanao' to tour Portugal, Italy, Canada

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines’ Land of Promise, which holds within her landscape, culture and people the essence of beauty, artistry and possibility, is once again depicted in “Mindanao Tapestry II X Renee Salud.”

“Through the vision of former Department of Tourism secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo and with the input of skilled Mindanao Weavers, we were able to reignite neo-ethnic fashion as we brought to life the second leg of Mindanao Tapestry,” said Salud.

“This is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and cultural presentation, which inspires us to continue showcasing the rich heritage of our country through modern and captivating designs,” he added.

The legendary designer, who had a successful stint in Davao City for a time, unleashed his creative genius in Okada Manila last May 9 in what was deemed as “not only celebrating the art of fashion but also embarking on a journey to discover the hidden treasures of Mindanao.”

The show was directed by Cata Figueroa Jr., with assistance from Marcel Isip. It was supported by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, the Province of Basilan, the Province of Maguindanao del Norte and Deputy Speaker Erwin Tulfo.

In his blockbuster collection, Salud used Inaul, Pis syabit, Tennun and T’nalak. The eye-catching accessories were made by Manny Halasan. “Mindanao Tapestry II” will be touring Portugal, Italy and Canada.

According to the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, Inaul refers to “the handwoven fabric malong (tube garment) using a loom. The types of looms utilized in Maguindanao are the ancient backstrap loom and the fixed horizontal frame with four treadles.”

The same source says Pis is “the geometric pattern, and Siyabit stands for the hook and technique. Pis syabit weaving is said to be a difficult art. It is a hand-woven square measuring 39 by 40 inches, which takes some three months to weave. It consists of stringing black and red threads across a banana and bamboo frame to form the base of the tapestry.”

Tennun weaving in Basilan, meanwhile, is “a traditional craft deeply ingrained in the culture of the region, which originated from the intricate techniques passed