Ilonggo designer helps Panay-Bukidnon embroiderers rise against COVID-19

By Sean Rafio

Ilonggo designer Jeff Ticao is well known for his dainty dresses, hand-painted garments, and his inventive use of the local fabric Hablon.

Ticao is the force behind Tumandok: A Panubok Mask Series which features embroideries by the Panay-Bukidnon (Panubok) tribe of Calinog, Iloilo.

Manang Regina Villanueva, a manugtubok (embroiderer) of the tribe, said they were gravely affected by the community quarantine measures amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

With their only source of income put on hold due to the health crisis, they struggled to source necessities for their daily lives.

Ticao decided to start the Tumandok: A Panubok Mask Series to aid the Panubok embroiderers. He made denim face masks with embroideries by the Panubok tribe of Calinog to feature their traditional art and culture and help sustain their simple living during the pandemic.

Face masks have been gaining popularity, primarily for protection against COVID-19 and as a worldwide fashion trend.

“I always love to work with local artisans. I love the stories behind every craft they make, there was a time that I was invited by the National Museum in Western Visayas to join their workshop about learning the basics of Panubok embroideries, and it was a fun learning experience,” Ticao said.

As we adjust to the “new normal,” don’t forget to #SupportLocal. Help our local entrepreneurs, artisans and indigenous people rise from this pandemic.