Araneta City, JAAF expand support for Filipino weavers through HIBLA

Araneta City and its corporate social responsibility arm, the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF), are launching HIBLA: Tradition Woven Forward, a reimagined cultural initiative that expands its annual trade fair into a broader, future‑forward program supporting Filipino weavers and preserving indigenous textile traditions.

“Hibla, meaning ‘fiber’ or ‘strand,’ perfectly encapsulates the essence of what we aim to achieve,” said Diane Romero, Executive Director of JAAF. “Each thread tells a story—of our history, our communities, and our future.”

HIBLA builds on the legacy of Habi Fiesta!, which was held in 2024 and 2025 as a stand‑alone trade fair at Gateway Mall 1, Araneta City. For 2026, Araneta City and JAAF are expanding the initiative into a program that supports weavers beyond the marketplace.

The expanded program introduces capacity‑building opportunities, creative collaborations, and recognition platforms designed to help artisans sustain and grow their practice in a modern economy. This marks a strategic shift toward a holistic platform that strengthens artisan communities while bringing Philippine weaving to contemporary audiences.

“HIBLA honors a legacy rooted in our founder, J. Amado Araneta, through the spirit of ‘Tradition Woven Forward,’” Romero said. “We are not only preserving heritage, but actively propelling it into modern relevance by opening market access, bringing indigenous textiles to the mainstream, and inspiring new applications that ensure their lasting impact.”

The centerpiece of HIBLA is the three‑day Weavers’ Fair, set from May 15 to 17, 2026, at the Quantum Skyview, Gateway Mall 2. Open to the public, the fair will showcase a diverse range of Filipino handwoven textiles and products directly from partner weaver communities.

Proceeds from the Weavers’ Fair will benefit the Gateway Gallery, the art museum of Araneta City, helping support its 2027 public programs and reinforcing the City’s commitment to accessible cultural spaces.

Beyond the retail fair, HIBLA also includes:

Capacity‑building sessions and workshops offering training in branding and digital storytelling

HIBLA limited‑edition merchandise, translating traditional patterns into modern, functional designs

The HIBLA Awards, recognizing excellence in craftsmanship, storytelling, and visual presentation

“Through HIBLA, we invite Filipinos to engage with Philippine textiles beyond simply shopping,” Romero said. “It is an invitation to be part of a living legacy—one that continues to evolve while remaining rooted in tradition.”