Traditional arts

and crafts in the

Philippines
Abaca (Musa textiles) is a tree-like herb
resembling the banana plant. Its fiber is more
widely known in the export trade as Manila
hemp. It is durable and resistant and can be
easily dyed in different colors.  
It is also used in the handicraft business as pulp
material for handmade paper, cordage or as
fibers to be woven into ropes and braids.  
Bamboo (Bambusa spinosa) is mostly
used for the furniture industry because of
its strength and durability. It is also a
valuable material for basket and hat
making. It is a grass species found
throughout the Philippines.
Buri (Corypha elata) is the largest palm found
in the Philippines. It is one of the most
important palms, next to the coconut, in terms
of economic and industrial importance. The
buri leaf is the most versatile material used in
handicraft industry. It is used for making hats,
boxes and other novelty items. It can be easily
dyed and woven into many shapes.  
Sea grass (Rhynchospora corymbosa) is
coarse sedge, about 1 meter in height. The
stems are distinctly triangular, and the leaves
are broad and long. It abounds in the
marshlands and rice paddies of southern.
Kalas is a derivative of the buri palm.
Locally, the term "kalas" means "to loosen"
and refers to the loosened strands of a buri
rope. When woven, kalas creates an
interesting, rustic pattern with distinct
characteristics from its original material.
• The variety of arts and crafts in the Philippines is not only a result
of its rich cultural melting pot, it also owes thanks to the wealth of
natural materials readily available including bamboo, rattan, and
coconut shells.
 

The Dream Weavers of Lake Sebu

While some crafts are fairly universal throughout the
Philippines, others are unique to specific ethnic
groups. Most notably, there’s a wonderful range of
textiles and local costumes.
Baguio UNESCO Creative City of Crafts
and Folk Art
In 2017 Baguio, a vibrant, multicultural
city in the mountains of Northern Luzon
with local artisans specialising in
woodcarving, silver craft, weaving and
tattooing, was named a UNESCO Creative
City of Crafts and Folk Art.
Meet the artist – Willy Tadeo Layug
The sunlight streams through an open
doorway in a quiet street in the barangay of
Sta. Ursula, the artistic centre of the Betis in
Guagua in the Filipino province of
Pampanga.
Over the years Layug has introduced new
techniques to the woodcarvers of Betis and his
sculptures can be found in many magnificent
churches around the Philippines as well as
overseas. With a reputation of being the finest
ecclesiastical artist in the country, Layug is the
recipient of many awards, including the
highest merit of the Catholic Church, the Pro
Ecclesia et Pontifice.
Local Markets
There are many markets throughout the
Philippines where you can find local handicrafts
and souvenirs. One of the best is at Quiapo in
Manila where you can buy items such as capiz
lampshades, bamboo wind chimes and a range of
traditional crafts from the provinces at great prices.
Even at smaller markets, such as the Sunday
market at Legazpi in Manila, it’s worth keeping an
eye out for handmade crafts.
Thank you!