In a powerful gesture of cultural reverence, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray recently paid a meaningful visit to the Bagobo Tagabawa tribe in Mindanao—an ethnic group known for its rich traditions, vibrant artistry, and deeply spiritual connection to nature and ancestry.

Dressed in radiant smiles and respect, Catriona immersed herself in the world of the Bagobo Tagabawa, highlighting their incredible craftsmanship through a heartfelt social media post:

“Creativity, craftsmanship, intricate detail and vibrant colour. • The Bagobo Tagabawa of Mindanao create intricate traditional garments woven from abaca and adorned with vibrant beadwork called pangulabe…”

Catriona described in detail the traditional attire worn by the community—the umpak ka bayi (beaded blouses) and sun’od (tubular skirts) for women, and umpak ka mama (jackets), saro-ar (trousers), and tangkulo (headcloths) for men. Each handwoven piece, often taking up to two months to complete, serves as a living canvas of cultural identity.

The designs are more than ornamental. They tell dreams, epic tales, and ancestral wisdom—featuring symbols like crocodiles, birds, flowers, and Mt. Apo, the sacred mountain of the region. These motifs connect the people to Manaman (spirit), Manobo (people), and Tana (land)—a triad that anchors their existence and worldview.

This visit is part of Catriona’s long-standing commitment to promoting Filipino heritage and indigenous artistry. More than a beauty queen, she continues to use her platform to amplify stories of the unseen and celebrate the rich tapestry of Filipino identity.

Through her lens, the Bagobo Tagabawa culture finds new light—reminding us that fashion, when rooted in history and soul, is a timeless form of storytelling.