UNESCO recognizes Aklan’s piña weaving as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

Photo from National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Philippines, 2018

Another win for the preservation of Filipino heritage and culture: Aklan’s timeless tradition of piña weaving has been officially inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.

Renowned for its intricate craftsmanship, piña weaving finds itself in the global spotlight as the first intangible cultural heritage from the Visayas region to be included in the list.

Widely recognized as the “queen of Philippines handwoven textiles,” piña has long been an integral part of the country’s cultural tapestry, adorning traditional garments, and various artisanal products.

On their Facebook post, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) shared that the announcement took place during the 18th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kasane, Botswana on Dec. 6.

“This acknowledgement embraces the unique cultural identity of the Aklanon people and promotes inclusivity across the Philippines,” said Ambassador Junever Mahilum-West, the permanent delegate of the Republic of the Philippines to UNESCO, in a video.

The piña handloom weaving stood out among 45 nominations submitted from around the world for inscription. Apart from this, it is also joined by the previously inscribed elements from the country.

You may also like: 15 modern barong that pay homage to the iconic Filipino shirt

“We share this cherished tradition with the whole world, joining the Hudhud chants, the Punnuk and the Buklog rituals, and the Darangen epic that were previously inscribed elements from northern and southern Philippines,” the ambassador added.

The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list aims to protect vital aspects of global heritage, encompassing oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, as well as knowledge and skills related to traditional crafts.