Iraya-Mangyans preserve traditions thru weaving

Ayala Foundation will showcase Iraya-Mangyan and their beautiful nito weaving tradition on October 10 via 'Ayala Group Fair Share Store' at  at the 2nd Floor Gallery of the InterContinental Hotel in Makati City.

Since I grew up in Mindoro, I've seen and met some members of the tribes of Mangyans like the Buhid and Hanunuo and sadly, only few of them have been practicing their culture now. That's why, it's great to know that the Iraya-Mangyan tribe preserved their tradition in the modern times.

The Iraya-Mangyan are an Indigenous Group residing in Puerto Galera who for generations have safe guarded and continue to breathe life into the art of nito weaving. Traditionally crafted into baskets, the Iraya-Mangyan have developed this art form to be able to create modern items such as coasters, trays, and and bread plates among others.

Nito refers to the special vine that grows in the wild. Because it cannot be cultivated or planted, the Iraya-Mangyan make only what the earth allows, ensuring the earth-friendly and sustainable nature of their art. Each nito woven item is one-of-a-kind, with no single design being exactly the same as the other. Delicately crafted by a single individual, a large basket takes roughly one week to complete. These specialty crafts require much time and patience but the final work speaks volumes of our rich indigenous tradition and excellent craftsmanship.

Check out these nito crafts made by the indigenous people of Mindoro:

With Christmas just around the corner, the nito crafts are ideal gifts items--while being beautiful, functional and durable, they also celebrate a culture we can be proud of.  With each purchase of the nito crafts, a contribution goes to the education, housing management, health, and livelihood development of the Iraya-Mangyan in partnership with the Ayala Foundation.

We are encourage you to come and see the nito crafts for sale at the 'Ayala Group Fair Share Store' on October 10, 2013 from 10am to 7pm at the 2nd Floor Gallery of the InterContinental Hotel in Makati City. They will be joined by other partner communities of the Ayala Group who will also be showcasing an exciting array creative products.

You may also visit the display booth of the Iraya-Mangyan crafts at the 3rd Floor of Greenbelt 5 or at the Museum Shop of the Ayala Museum.

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