DFA Conducts Heritage Talks on the ITNEG
PASAY CITY 09 October 2024 - The Department of Foreign Affairs-Office of Cultural Diplomacy (DFA-OCD), in collaboration with HABI: The Philippine Textile Council and Museo ng Kaalamáng Katutubò (MUSKKAT), organized the 4th lecture of the “Heritage Talks” series titled Itneg: Textiles, Design, and Meaning on 02 October 2024, at the Bulwagang Apolinario Mabini (BAM) in the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Dr. Norma Respicio, a PhD holder in Philippine Studies from the University of the Philippines, Diliman and one of the country’s leading Art Studies scholars was the event’s resource speaker. Specializing in the history and aesthetics of traditional art forms, particularly on Philippine and Southeast Asian textiles, she provided knowledge on Itneg textiles saying that, “their design-motifs are drawn from and are reflective of the Itneg community’s beliefs, ritual practices, social stratification, and rich physical surroundings.” According to Dr. Respicio, “the multi-spirit world, characteristic of their rice-based agrarian economy, is the most dominant motif,” and “the woven textiles are highlighted in Itneg rituals and oral traditions, such as the Itneg Epic, thus it is a deeply rooted tradition.”
Assistant Secretary of the DFA - OCD Celia Anna M. Feria delivered the welcome remarks. In her speech, she said that “the lecture aims to spotlight the vibrant culture and traditions of the Itneg and their contributions to the rich tapestry of Philippine cultural heritage reminding us that our national cultural heritage consists of interweaving traditions, values, and practices, from diverse regions and communities.” The event was attended by the members of the diplomatic corps, guests from cultural agencies, the Department’s personnel, university students, and local weavers in Metro Manila, as well as, the Foreign Service Posts (FSPs) who participated virtually.
A bazaar featuring local entrepreneurs selling Philippine weaves and cultural products making use of indigenous textiles, prints, and raw materials was held simultaneously with the event. Refreshments that included Filipino street food favorites, such as taho, sorbetes, fishballs, chicharon, and biko, among others, were served by Pasay City purveyors to the onsite participants to complement the lecture theme. END
