The Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology successfully hosts the 2025 Inabel ti Abra Exhibit and Fashion Show in partnership with DTI, DOST, PIA, and Asian Livelihood Network. The Two-day affair aimed to display the province’s indigenous woven fabrics and establish collaboration with Japan’s Banshu-ori, a traditional method of textile production. This collaboration was headed by ASIST’s President, Dr. Gregorio T. Turqueza and ALN’s Director, Dr. Mami Kagawa.
The first day of the activity commenced with the ribbon cutting ceremony and opening of the bazaar where local weavers were able to display their crafts. The Japanese representatives were also able to display their Banshu-ori products in the Bazaar. Dir. Marvin T. Arcangel of DTI-Abra highlighted the importance of developing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to foster economic growth in the province of Abra.
The highlight of the second day of the activity is the Inabel ti Abra fashion show where local designers displayed their creativity in reinventing the Inabel fabric into modern designs. The fashion show commenced with models gracing the runway wearing the Abel ti Abra designs by Achilles Runway. This was followed by a message from Dr. Mami Kagawa and the grand showcase of Japan’s Banshu-ori by Mr. Yusuke Sasakura of Sasakura Seifu, Mr. Daisuke Kawakami of Kawakami Corporation, Mr. Takashi Hitashiyama, and Mr. Yuutaro Takase. After the showcase, a message of support was given by DOST-CAR Director Nancy A. Bantog through her representative. Following this, the local designers displayed their designs in the runway for the Abel ti Abra competition. The fashion show concluded with the announcement of the winners of the Abel ti Abra fashion show where local designers were recognized for their creative nuances in designing and reimagining the traditional art of woven fabrics in the province of Abra. For the best casual attire and best formal attire, designers Mr. Lemuel Benedito and Mr. Joshua Bejarin, both faculty from the college, were the winners for both categories. For the weaving challenge, a local designer, Reina’s Handloom Woven Products, was the winner.
The two-day event was a significant milestone in promoting the province’s indigenous fabrics as well as establishing collaboration with Japan’s traditional textile artisans in hopes of exchanging techniques and well as knowledge in the art of hand woven fabrics.
