The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) officially opened the ARTE BABAE: An Exhibition of Women Traditional Artisans Exhibit last March 18, 2026, at the Likhang Filipino (Gallery 1), Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), Pasay City.
The exhibition brings together Filipino women artisans from across the country in celebration of National Women’s Month, recognizing their vital role in preserving community traditions, cultural heritage, and women-led creative enterprises.
The event began with welcome remarks from NCCA Chairman and Executive Director Dr. Eric Zerrudo, who underscored the enduring role of women in sustaining the country’s cultural life.
“Across our archipelago, Filipinas actively sustain and enrich the living tradition of our diverse community,” Zerrudo said. He further emphasized, “They are the culture bearers who continuously shape our tradition through their craft. The women of our nation do not only create art; they uplift and preserve it.”
This message was echoed by Asec. Marie Rafael of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, who highlighted the significance of women artisans in cultural preservation and community life.
“Women artisans are guardians of our heritage, teachers of the next generation, and movers in communities,” Rafael said.
Also present at the opening was Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Al Modesto Valenciano, who recognized the depth of women’s contributions across cultural and economic fields.
“From traditional arts to contemporary expression, women lead creative enterprises,” he said, affirming that women’s artistry continues to shape both heritage and innovation.
One of the highlights of the event was the performance by the women of Kalinga Sumacher. The resonant sounds of their bamboo instruments welcomed the guests, following a customary practice that signifies arrival, prayer, and welcome. Their performance set the tone for an event rooted in cultural pride, celebration, and community.
The spirit of the event was further heightened by the breathtaking performances brought to life by Tanghalang Bagong Sibol. A fashion show featuring the creations of Norman Peñaflorida also captivated guests with striking designs that incorporated traditional art into contemporary fashion.
One of the highlights of the event was the performance by the women of Kalinga Sumacher. The resonant sounds of their bamboo instruments welcomed the guests, following a customary practice that signifies arrival, prayer, and welcome. Their performance set the tone for an event rooted in cultural pride, celebration, and community.
The spirit of the event was further heightened by the breathtaking performances brought to life by Tanghalang Bagong Sibol. A fashion show featuring the creations of Norman Peñaflorida also captivated guests with striking designs that incorporated traditional art into contemporary fashion.
Throughout the exhibition, the stories of the traditional women artisans were featured, as their crafts have become a passion built over years of experience. More than just a showcase of handcrafted works, ARTE BABAE emphasized that art is not merely ornamental; it becomes sustainable when it goes beyond preserving culture and tradition—it sustains these Filipino women’s households. As they fulfill their duty of preserving Philippine traditional art, it is a source of livelihood, a marker of dignity, and an expression of identity.
From Tawi-Tawi, Janeth Hanapi shared a life shaped by 54 years of mat weaving. Minda Ciano from Benguet likewise carries a skill passed down by her parents, reflecting the role of family in passing down traditions and culture. Geneva Agaid, a kinamay embroiderer from Abra, also shared that her passion for her craft came with challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but she found an opportunity to venture into online selling platforms while still preserving the beauty of traditional art. Additionally, Rebecca Silip, a traditional musician from Kalinga, is an advocate for safeguarding cultural heritage, promoting traditional music to the younger generation. Lastly, Raquel Eliserio from Aklan shared the intricacy of piña weaving, showcasing the dedication required to create beautiful crafts.
The women and other featured artists of the ARTE BABAE exhibit served as a great reminder for the attendees that culture is not frozen in time but a living practice, passed on from generation to generation. At the heart of this effort are women who add beauty and value to every craft they make.
From Tawi-Tawi, Janeth Hanapi shared a life shaped by 54 years of mat weaving. Minda Ciano from Benguet likewise carries a skill passed down by her parents, reflecting the role of family in passing down traditions and culture. Geneva Agaid, a kinamay embroiderer from Abra, also shared that her passion for her craft came with challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but she found an opportunity to venture into online selling platforms while still preserving the beauty of traditional art. Additionally, Rebecca Silip, a traditional musician from Kalinga, is an advocate for safeguarding cultural heritage, promoting traditional music to the younger generation. Lastly, Raquel Eliserio from Aklan shared the intricacy of piña weaving, showcasing the dedication required to create beautiful crafts.
The women and other featured artists of the ARTE BABAE exhibit served as a great reminder for the attendees that culture is not frozen in time but a living practice, passed on from generation to generation. At the heart of this effort are women who add beauty and value to every craft they make.
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