Iloilo Hablon eyes IP protection for future weavers

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The Iloilo Weavers Association, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry’s Iloilo Provincial Office, held a pre-workshop meeting May 28, 2026, at the DTI Iloilo Provincial Office to advance the proposed collective mark and geographical indication applications for Iloilo Hablon.

The initiative marks a major step toward preserving and protecting Iloilo’s centuries-old handloom weaving tradition, a cultural heritage that continues to flourish through the dedication and craftsmanship of weavers from the municipalities of Miagao, Oton, Badiangan, Tigbauan, and Dueñas, as well as Iloilo City.

Iloilo Hablon is widely recognized as a symbol of Ilonggo artistry and cultural identity, supported by various government-led interventions aimed at strengthening the weaving sector.

These interventions include skills enhancement programs, product development activities, market linkage initiatives, and the provision of weaving equipment through the DTI’s Shared Service Facility Project.

The Shared Service Facility Project is a DTI program designed to improve micro, small, and medium enterprises’ productivity and competitiveness by providing shared access to equipment, tools, systems, skills, and knowledge.

During the meeting, participants discussed the current state of the weaving industry, ongoing development efforts, and strategies to further enhance the protection, promotion, and market competitiveness of Iloilo Hablon in domestic and international markets.

DTI Iloilo officer in charge Provincial Director Ma. Dorita D. Chavez led the discussions.

Marianne Tajanlangit-Bebit, intellectual property rights specialist II from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, provided an overview of the requirements and processes involved in securing collective mark and geographical indication protection.

Under IPOPHL, a geographical indication identifies a product as originating from a specific territory, region, or locality, where its quality, reputation, or other characteristics are essentially linked to its geographic origin or human factors.

Representatives from the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Offices of Iloilo City and Iloilo province also joined the meeting, highlighting the collaborative efforts of government agencies and industry stakeholders to safeguard the province’s weaving heritage.

Once secured, the collective mark and geographical indication registrations are expected to reinforce the authenticity and distinct identity of Iloilo Hablon, protect local weavers from imitation products, and create greater opportunities for cultural preservation, market expansion, and inclusive economic growth.

The initiative underscores stakeholders’ commitment to ensuring that the rich tradition of Iloilo Hablon weaving remains a source of pride and livelihood for future generations of Ilonggos.