The provincial government of La Union has formed an organization of loom weavers in Bangar town tasked to safeguard and promote the tradition.

Inabel pertains to the intricately made textile product from handloom weaving.

Following a three-day training Abel Academy: School of Living Traditions Nogueras Weaving in Bangar in November, the Young Loomweavers Association of Bangar (YLAB) was formed.

The program immersed participants in the traditional craft of handloom weaving, providing them with hands-on trainings under the guidance of experienced and skilled cultural bearers who introduced foundational techniques, including beginner weaving and operating the traditional loom, known locally as tillar, according to the Provincial Information Office.

The training not only equipped the participants with practical weaving skills but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of the industry.

Phil Marie Lucina, elected president of the organization, said in an interview on Tuesday that they fully support the preservation of Abel in the province.

“Super ganda kaya nararapat na maabutan pa ito ng next generation. Kailangan ma-preserve ito kasi gusto namin magpatuloy pa ito (It is really beautiful so the next generation should be able to see and experience this. We need to preserve it because we want it to continue),” she said.

Lucina said the members of the organization are weavers and the recent training by the provincial government, through the Tourism Office, boosted their knowledge and appreciation of the industry.

“We are thinking of innovating products that are in the present trend. We wanted to deviate from the common products such as blankets and pillowcases and instead innovate with hats, headbands and even dresses,” she said in Filipino.

Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David extended her full support to the activity and underscored the important role of the youth in the preservation and promotion of the rich tradition of loom weaving.

“We are excited to continue the legacy of our loom weavers here in Bangar, fostering a new generation of weavers who will carry our tradition and cultural heritage forward,” she said. (PNA)